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Air-Minus

Applications:
  • Overview
  • Packaging
  • FAQs
  • Advantages
  • Resources

When designing high-density concrete mixes, one of the most challenging characteristics to maintain is air content. Unlike other concrete mixes, high-density concrete mixes require very low air content. Fritz-Pak’s Air Minus offers an easy way to control the air content at the job site. Fritz-Pak’s air-detraining admixture’s chemical structure lowers the concrete mix’s water tension. This lower tension reduces the development of air bubbles and releases the ones that have already formed. An air-dentrainer, such as Air Minus, offers a cost-effective method for reducing entrained air caused by superplasticizers or fly ash in the concrete mix. Air minus does not contain hazardous materials and comes packaged in our signature water-soluble bags for easy use.

How to Use an Air-Detraining Admixture

Using an air-detraining admixture can sometimes be a little tricky. That’s why we created a troubleshooting video to help you get the results you need. Don’t forget to follow our social media channels for more information about how our admixtures can improve your concrete.

Item#DescriptionBags/CaseBags/PalletCases/Pallet
959961.1 lb. (500 g.) water soluble bag2442
9599750 lb. (22.7 kg.) paper bag40
What is the mode of action of Air-Minus?
Air-Minus reduces the water tension thus reducing the ability of water to form bubbles.
What happens to the air after I add Air-Minus?
As concrete is exposed to the air, the entrained bubbles break and the air is released back to the atmosphere. That is why it is important to mix the concrete after Air-Minus has been added.
What is the main component of Air-Minus?
It is a medium chain, branched glycol.
Is Air-Minus soluble in water?
No.
Will Air-Minus effect the strength of the concrete?
No. It may increase compressive strength.
When is the best time to add Air-Minus?
Prior to mixing. This can prevent the formation of bubbles thus reducing entrained air.
Can you knock out all air content with Air-Minus?
No. The lowest air content you can realistically expect is around 1.0%.
Can loads containing Air-Minus be redosed?
Yes. However, the air content may or may not decrease further.
Can Air-Minus counteract high dosages of air entraining admixtures?
No. Air entraining admixtures are very strong materials. If concrete is accidentally dosed with high doses of air entrainers, Air-Minus may not effectively lower the air content.
Can Air-Minus be used with latex and other polymers?
Yes.
Can Air-Minus be used to produce heavyweight concrete, such as for radiation shielding?
Yes. It helps to maintain stable air contents and may be more effective than adding heavy weight aggregates or minerals.
Can Air-Minus be used in cement slurries and low viscosity grouts?
Yes. Air-Minus is very effective in those products.
Can Air-Minus be used to counteract the air entraining effects of polycarboxylate superplasticizers or high dosages of conventional superplasticizers?
Yes.
  • Reduces the amount of concrete rejected due to high entrained air content
  • Increases unit weight of concrete
  • Recommended for the production of heavyweight concrete
  • Allows high speed mixing of cement and fly ash without foaming
  • May increase compressive strength of concrete
  • Counteracts entrained air caused by the new generation of superplasticizers
  • Maintains slurry densities
  • Air-Minus is available in bulk or in a patented water-soluble Fritz-Pak inner bag for convenient use at the plant or job site

Compatibility

Air-Minus is compatible with most admixtures. Adding salt, surfactants, superplasticizers, air entrainers or latex to the mix can cause increased foaming or reduce the effectiveness of Air-Minus. When used with other admixtures, each admixture must be dispensed separately into the mix.

Technical Documents