⭐️To speed up the setting time of ready-mix concrete, you add a set accelerator.

💫Common Chemicals Used as Accelerators

📜Here are the most widely used types:

1. Calcium Chloride (CaCl₂)

Very effective and inexpensive.

Fastest accelerator.

BUT not recommended for reinforced concrete because it increases the risk of steel corrosion.


2. Non-Chloride Accelerators (Safe for Reinforcement)

These are commonly used in structural works:

Calcium Nitrate

Calcium Formate

Calcium Nitrite

Sodium Nitrate

Triethanolamine (TEA) (usually in blended admixtures)

Commercial names include: MasterSet, Set-X, Mapeplast, Sika Rapid, etc.

When to Use Accelerators?

👉Cold weather concreting (low temperature slows setting)

👉Early stripping of formwork

👉Early strength gain needed

👉Emergency repairs


🎲Important Notes

Dosage must follow the manufacturer’s recommendation (usually 0.5–2% by weight of cement).

✅Too much accelerator causes cracks, flash setting, and reduced strength.

@etconp