The Effects of Air-Entraining Agent on Fresh and Hardened Properties of 3D Concrete

Three-dimensional concrete printing (3DCP) is becoming more common in the construction industry nowadays; however, aspect of durability printed not well-studied yet. Frost resistance a very important factor for structures located northern regions. Since air-entraining agents (AEAs) are widely used conventional concrete, this paper focuses on exploring potential using AEAs 3D as well—the main objective to determine how it affects fresh and hardened properties, including frost concrete. Three different mixes were cast—the dry mix consisted ordinary Portland cement (OPC), limestone filler (LF), sand, well viscosity modifying agent (VMA) superplasticizer (SP). Two contained amounts AEA, third one was reference. First, state properties tested—air content, density, mini cone flow test. Second, 28-day compressive flexural strength tests carried out; bulk particle densities also determined. Next, both cast samples subject freeze–thaw cycles according provisions CEN/TS 12390-9, mass loss due surface scaling determined each sample. As result, containing AEA amount 0.06% binder showed highest resistance—addition decreased by 30–40%. To conclude, obtained results give an insight addition its long short term. Further research certain aspects, instance, air void system pore distribution needed gain deeper understanding increase