The physical and mechanical properties of concrete with multifunctional additive

Introduction. It is known that concrete is the main building material, despite the introduction of new technologies. The combination of strength and durability makes this material indispensable for the construction of civil and industrial infrastructure. However, the impact of aggressive external factors on concrete structures, such as an acidic or alkaline environment, temperature fluctuations, and the presence of water at low temperatures, can lead to a significant decrease in their strength characteristics. The introduction of various additives based on organic and inorganic compounds into the composition of concrete allows for the regulation of its performance properties and protect concrete structures from the negative impact of the environment. Therefore, research works aimed at improving physical and mechanical properties and quality of concrete structures are relevant. Methods and materials. The objects of our research were concrete samples, prepared with and without the use of a multifunctional additive called “Betomix-ITH Gel”, which was developed by the researchers of the Institute of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ITC UB RAS). The physical and chemical properties of the compared samples were studied in accordance with Russian and interstate regulatory documents in accredited laboratories of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Turkey. Results and discussion. As a result of the research, we have found that the introduction of the multifunctional additive "Betomix-ITH Gel" to the concrete mixture significantly increases the water resistance, frost resistance, and strength of concrete samples, compared to samples without the additive. It has been shown that Betomix-ITH Gel imparts the property of "self-healing" to concrete, with cracks up to 0.5 mm in size, and increases the resistance of steel reinforcement to corrosion. Conclusion. The research has proved experimentally the effectiveness of the Betomix-ITH Gel additive for improving the quality characteristics for concrete of various classes, which allows the use of this additive in concrete mixtures in the construction of reinforced concrete structures located in aggressive conditions.