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What is Low-Heat Concrete?

Low-heat concrete is a special type of concrete produced by using materials that limit the heat generation during the cement hydration process. This helps control the internal temperature of the concrete mass, reducing the risk of thermal cracking and ensuring the durability of the structure.

This development plays a crucial role in modern construction, especially for projects with large structures, thick concrete masses, and complex construction conditions. Using this type of concrete helps address the following issues:

1. Introduction to Low-Heat Concrete

Reducing Thermal Cracking: Thermal cracking is common in large concrete structures, leading to reduced strength and load-bearing capacity of the structure. Thus, it minimizes the risk of cracking.

Enhancing Durability: Low-heat concrete has better resistance to sulfates, acids, and abrasion compared to conventional concrete. Therefore, it can withstand harsh construction environments and ensure long-lasting durability for the project.

Cost Savings: It reduces the need for special construction measures like post-pour shrinkage control, thereby saving construction costs.

Reference: WHAT IS COMMERCIAL CONCRETE? MIXING METHODS AT SMC
2. Technical Characteristics of Low-Heat Concrete

First, low-heat concrete is mainly applied in large projects, particularly those requiring high technical standards and adherence to domestic and international standards for fresh mass concrete.

In concrete design, the combination of low-heat cement and fly ash is considered to optimize the cement content used.

The concrete production process ensures the lowest possible temperature control for the input materials.

On-site, the temperature of fresh concrete and the internal temperature of the hardened concrete mass are maintained at appropriate levels.

To meet the TCVN 305:2004 standard, the temperature difference between points in the concrete is maximally controlled.

3. Factors Affecting Low-Heat Concrete

The effectiveness of low-heat concrete depends on several factors, including:

1. Production Process and Material Selection:

• Type of Cement: Using low-heat cement is the most crucial factor for effectively producing low-heat concrete.
• Type of Aggregate: Selecting aggregates with suitable size, shape, and water content helps minimize the amount of heat generated during hydration.
• Additives: Using heat-reducing additives, superplasticizers, and anti-cracking additives can enhance the effectiveness of low-heat concrete.

2. Construction Technology and Procedures:

• Concrete Mix Design: The concrete mix must be designed to suit the construction conditions and project requirements.
• Mixing and Transporting Methods: Using appropriate methods for mixing and transporting concrete helps minimize water loss and heat generation during construction.
• Construction and Curing Methods: Applying suitable construction and curing methods ensures quality and effectiveness.

3. Adherence to Technical Standards:

It is necessary to comply with technical standards related to the production, construction, and use of low-heat concrete to ensure the quality and effectiveness of this material.

Strict quality control and supervision during construction are also essential to ensure the project meets requirements for durability, safety, and energy efficiency.

In modern construction, finding environmentally friendly and energy-saving material solutions is becoming increasingly urgent. Low-heat concrete emerges as a potential choice, offering many superior benefits compared to conventional concrete.

Learn more: CAUSES OF REINFORCED CONCRETE CORROSION AND REMEDIES WITH SMC

To ensure high quality and meet standards, use ISO-standard commercial concrete from SMC Concrete. We are committed to providing quality concrete products that meet technical requirements and industry standards.

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