Master X-Seed STE 35: Strength-enhancing admixture for sustainable hollow core slabs production

Figure: Master Builders Solutions

Fig. 1: Fresh concrete consistency

Figure: Master Builders Solutions

Fig. 2 (left): On the left, the element produced with the reference mix (400 kg/m³ of cement)

Figure: Master Builders Solutions

Fig. 2 (right): on the right, the element produced with the low-clinker mix (350 kg/m³ of cement) and Master X-Seed STE 35

Figure: Master Builders Solutions

Fig. 3: Compressive strength of the reference mix containing 400 kg/m³ of cement type I and of the low-clinker mix containing Master X-Seed STE 35 with 50 kg/m³ less cement

Figure: Master Builders Solutions

Fig. 4: Compressive strength of the reference mix (containing 360 kg/m³ of pure CEM I) and compressive strength of the low-clinker mix (blend of CEM I and CEM IV) containing on top Master X-Seed STE 35

Figure: Master Builders Solutions

Fig. 5: ECO²NOW app

Figure: Master Builders Solutions

Reducing the CEM I dosage or replacing it with clinker-reduced cement types or SCMs can improve the sustainability of hollow core slabs, but can lead to performance losses in terms of strength development at early and late ages. Master X-Seed STE 35 supports sustainable construction by optimizing the concrete mix.

The production of prestressed hollow core slabs takes place in the plant on long tracks (120-150 m) on which prestressing cables are laid out, suitably distributed, and stretched. Concrete casting is carried out continuously with the use of special machines (mainly extruders and slipformers). The two types of machines differ by their mode of operation and therefore by the forces imposed on the concrete. Because of the different compaction processes of extruders and slipformers, the mix design used to produce the hollow core slabs can vary significantly.

In the case of production with...