Product Description
Force 10,000D® -A is a dry densified microsilica powder designed to increase concrete compressive and flexural strengths, increase durability, reduce permeability and improve hydraulic abrasion-erosion resistance. Force 10,000D® -A complies with the following specifications AS/NZ 3582.3:2016.
Applications
Force 10,000D® -A can be used to consistently produce high strength concrete with strengths of 50 - 100 mPa in most instances with locally available materials and existing methods. It may also be used in precast and prestress applications where high early strengths are required.
The addition of Force 10,000D® -A also produces concrete with increased watertightness and dramatically reduced permeability compared to conventional mixes. Reduced permeability is an important advantage in slowing the intrusion of chloride where corrosion of reinforcing steel is a potential problem. Examples are parking garages, bridge decks and concrete in a marine environment. Force 10,000D® -A also enhances the durability of concrete against aggressive chemical attack and in hydraulic abrasion-erosion applications.
Force 10,000D® -A can be used in shotcrete to improve the durability, cohesion and increase compressive strengths. Force 10,000D® -A can help to minimise re-bound.
Chemical Action
Force 10,000D® -A improves concrete through two mechanisms. The extremely fine microsilica particles are able to fill the microscopic voids between the cement particles, creating a less permeable structure. In addition, the microsilica reacts with the free calcium hydroxide within the concrete to form additional calcium silicate hydrate (glue), producing a tighter paste-to-aggregate bond.
Addition Rate
Force 10,000D® -A dosage rates will vary based on the requirements of the application. Dosage rates should be calculated on percent microsilica by weight of cement, or on kg/m3 of concrete, as appropriate. Dosage rates will be as specified. If not specified, consult your local GCP representative for your particular job needs.
Compatibility with Other Admixture
Force 10,000D® -A is compatible with all conventional water reducers, superplasticisers, set retarders and DCI® corrosion inhibitor. All admixtures must be added separately to assure their prescribed performance. Trial mixes and pretesting of concrete are recommended to optimise dosage rates, and ensure ultimate performance.
Packaging
Force 10,000D® -A is available in 10kg bags.
Storing and Dispensing
Bagged Force 10,000D® -A should be stored in a dry, protected area. A dust mask should be used when dispensing the bagged product, consult the product Safety Data Sheet for more complete instructions.
Force 10,000D® -A bags are added to the agitator prior to concrete manufacture. After concrete is made thorough mixing is extremely critical to disperse the Force 10,000D® -A and disintegrate the bag.
Concrete Mix
Force 10,000D® -A can be used in either central or transit mix concrete production and high range water-reducing. Force 10,000D® -A may be used in conjunction with water-reducing admixtures.
Concrete Performance
Force 10,000D® -A will improve the mechanical properties of concrete. In order to meet specified concrete performance levels, however, many variables are involved. These include, but are not limited to, concrete materials, weather conditions, testing techniques and mixing, transporting, placing and finishing practices.
Preconstruction Trial Mix
It is strongly recommended that trial mixes be made several weeks before construction start up. This will allow the concrete producer an opportunity to determine the proper batching sequence and amounts of other admixtures needed in order to deliver the required concrete mix to the job site. A trial mix will also help determine whether the combination of concrete materials and construction practices will allow the concrete to meet a specified performance. GCP’s broad experience with this product can help the concrete producer deliver a satisfactory product regardless of the mixture proportions. Contact your local GCP representative for help with trial mixes.
Health and Safety
Read and understand the product label and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) if handling the product directly. All users should acquaint themselves with this information prior to working with the product and follow the precautionary statements. SDSs can be obtained by contacting your local GCP representative or office.