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CEMEX launch new concrete in UK

CEMEX UK have launched Promptis, a new rapid-hardening, controlled-set concrete which allows contractors to strip formwork much earlier than they could using traditional concrete. Use of a new admixture system makes it possible to achieve an accelerated strength of 4 MPa after just four hours, while maintaining the concrete’s initial flow for at least 90min, giving much higher utilization of formwork and speeding up construction times.

CEMEX say Promptis provides an affective solution for projects such as road and rail renovation, where its use allows possession of the area to be greatly reduced and the transport put back into operation relatively quickly. It is also suitable for precasting where structures can be demoulded and stored just 12h after pouring.

The properties of Promptis are the result of a mix of specialized superplasticizer, polymer and accelerator added to concrete that contains 400–450kg per cubic metre of cement.

 

According to CEMEX, Promptis has been launched globally rather than nationally, as it produces consistent results using a broad variety of cements available in different countries. In addition, CEMEX say there is global market demand, with Promptis suitable for use in both ready-mixed concrete and precast applications.

The product was developed by CEMEX’s research and development team, in conjunction with the UK technical team, at the company’s Global Centre for Technology and Innovation in Switzerland.

Key advantages of Promptis: 

  • Formwork can be stripped after 6h. 
  • Rapid construction programmes are easily achieved. 
  • The concrete is easy to compact and finish. 
  • The stiffening process and strength development begin as soon as the material is finally placed.
  • Much lower risk of thermal cracking as the cement hydration process occurs more slowly. 
  • Concrete can be fully loaded after 24h as strengths of 40N/mm2 are typically achieved. 
  • Design strength achieved in less than seven days. 
  • Slip-form casting times are faster. 
  • Concrete poured in winter achieves the required strength faster to avoid frost damage.

 

 

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