MICRO-AIR 720 | MCT CHEMICALS | MASTER BUILDER SOLUTIONS

Usage of MICRO-AIR 720

MICRO-AIR 720 is suitable for various concrete applications, particularly those where air entrainment is essential for durability and performance:

1. Concrete Exposed to Freeze-Thaw Cycles:
   • MICRO-AIR 720 is commonly used in concrete that will be exposed to freeze-thaw conditions, such as pavements, roadways, driveways, and foundations. The air entrainment helps absorb the stresses caused by freezing and thawing, reducing the likelihood of cracking.
2. Concrete in Harsh Environmental Conditions:
   • Ideal for concrete exposed to chemical attacks, severe weather, or areas with high levels of salt or deicing chemicals. The air bubbles help protect the concrete from damage in aggressive environments.
3. Precast Concrete Production:
   • MICRO-AIR 720 is suitable for precast concrete elements, including beams, panels, and pipes, ensuring both durability and ease of handling during production.
4. Ready-Mix Concrete:
   • It enhances the workability of ready-mix concrete, especially in applications where ease of placement, compaction, and finishing are critical, such as complex forms or large pours.
5. Concrete for Decorative Applications:
   • MICRO helps improve the surface finish of decorative concrete by reducing surface imperfections such as cracking and dusting.

Application of MICRO-AIR 720

The application of MICRO-AIR 720 is straightforward, but proper dosing and mixing techniques are essential to achieve the best results:

1. Dosage:
   • The typical recommended dosage of MICRO-AIR 720 is between 0.1% and 0.3% by weight of cement, depending on the desired air content and specific project requirements.
   • The exact dosage should be determined based on trial mixes to meet the desired air content and performance requirements.
2. Mixing:
   • MICRO-AIR 720 should be added to the mix with other admixtures or directly with the mixing water to ensure even distribution of air bubbles throughout the concrete.
   • It is important to avoid overdosing, as excessive air entrainment can reduce the strength and overall performance of the concrete.
3. Compatibility:
   •  compatible with most cement types and commonly used concrete admixtures, such as superplasticizers, retarders, and accelerators. It is recommended to test compatibility with other admixtures on-site before use.

Coverage of MICRO-AIR 720

The coverage of MICRO-AIR 720 is dependent on the dosage applied and the specific air content required. As a general guideline:

• Coverage Rate: MICRO-AIR 720 typically requires 0.1% to 0.3% by weight of cement. For every 100 kg of cement, this would be 100-300 mL of MICRO-AIR 720.
• The exact coverage rate will vary based on environmental conditions, mix design, and the desired air content.

Advantages of MICRO-AIR 720

MICRO-AIR 720 provides several benefits that improve both the performance and durability of concrete:

1. Enhanced Freeze-Thaw Resistance:
   • The fine air bubbles introduced by  help protect concrete from the damage caused by freeze-thaw cycles. This is particularly important in cold climates or in areas subject to deicing chemicals.
2. Improved Durability:
   • The air entrainment improves the concrete’s resistance to cracking, shrinkage, and chemical attack, leading to a longer-lasting and more stable structure.
3. Better Workability:
   • MICRO-AIR 720 enhances the workability of the concrete mix, making it easier to place, finish, and compact. This is especially beneficial for large pours or when working with complex forms.
4. Reduced Shrinkage Cracking:
   • The fine air bubbles reduce internal stresses, which can minimize the occurrence of drying shrinkage cracks, particularly in large concrete elements or slabs.
5. Cost-Effective:
   • By improving the durability and reducing the need for additional curing or protection methods, MICRO-AIR 720 offers a cost-effective solution for concrete exposed to harsh conditions.
6. Smoother Surface Finish:
   • Concrete treated with  tends to have a smoother and more uniform surface finish, reducing imperfections and enhancing the overall aesthetic quality of the concrete.
7. Environmentally Friendly:
   •  water-based, making it an environmentally friendly option compared to solvent-based air-entraining agents. It has minimal environmental impact and is easy to clean up.
8. Increased Longevity of Concrete Structures:
   • The  improves the concrete’s long-term performance by enhancing its resistance to freeze-thaw damage, chemical attack, and other environmental factors, ultimately extending the lifespan of concrete structures.
9. Compatible with Other Admixtures:
   •  compatible with a wide range of other concrete admixtures, including plasticizers, retarders, and accelerators, allowing for tailored solutions to meet specific project needs.