CAMBRIDGE, MA –16 August, 2016 – GCP Applied Technologies Inc. (NYSE: GCP) has introduced the TYTRO® Shotcrete System, a complete state-of-the-art admixture solution that makes shotcrete for underground construction better, faster and less expensive than conventional systems available today. The TYTRO® System includes a nanotechnology-based rheology control agent, patented macro synthetic fibres, and a number of other newly developed admixtures that enhance productivity of the spraying operation and material performance.

"Our TYTRO® Shotcrete System provides improved agility and additional capabilities that applicators and global contractors have been demanding for decades," said Adam Grose, President, Speciality Construction Chemicals, GCP Applied Technologies.

The TYTRO® Shotcrete System provides underground construction professionals with the capability to reduce operating costs and minimise excavation downtime, without sacrificing performance or relaxing safety standards. The TYTRO® Shotcrete System provides faster early strength and enhanced bonding-to-rock with an increased one-pass thickness build-up. The system also minimises rebound during spraying.

Main advantages* provided by the TYTRO® Shotcrete System compared to conventional mixes include:

• Up to 10% lower installed cost, achieved through mix optimisation, waste minimisation and shorter cycle times
• Rebound rates reduced down to 5% - 8%
• Faster re-entry times, due to more rapid early age strength development at equal accelerator dosage rate
• Superior bond-to-rock and adhesion between layers, providing greater thickness in one pass
• More robust and dosage efficient system

"Our technical specialists have analysed the unique challenges of underground construction projects to create customised mix designs, delivering the most optimised and cost efficient concrete mix for each project. We also support our customers with world class site support and training", said Grose.

The TYTRO® Shotcrete System includes the following products:

• TYTRO® WR: High-range water-reducing admixtures for shotcrete that provide superior flow, prolonged slump life, and excellent plasticity, maximising strength performance by allowing a lower water-to-cementitious materials ratio (w/cm).
• TYTRO® HC: Cement hydration control admixture, extending the working life of shotcrete up to 72 hours.
• TYTRO® RC: Innovative pozzolan-based rheology control admixture that is designed to reduce installed material cost when used as a replacement for silica fume or other cementitious materials. It provides faster early strength, superior bond-to-rock, enhanced sprayability, lower rebound and reduced cycle times.
• TYTRO® SA: Latest generation of high-performance, alkali-free set accelerators, specifically formulated to provide high early strength at low dosage rates and improve productivity by shortening the time of setting without compromising long-term strength and durability.
• STRUX® BT: Macro-fibres featuring a patented design developed for underground shotcrete applications and offering superior flexural toughness and post-crack energy absorption.
• TYTRO® AE: Air entraining admixture for use in shotcrete mixes to protect against damage from freeze/thaw cycles.
• TYTRO® RM: Rheology modifying and mix-enhancing admixtures formulated to improve the pumpability and sprayability of the shotcrete mix.

GCP’s complete portfolio of solutions for the mining and infrastructure tunnelling industries includes admixtures for shotcrete and concrete, proprietary fibre reinforcement systems, injection technologies for ground support and waterproofing systems for shotcrete. The company combines its technical expertise in shotcrete mix design optimisation, on-site monitoring systems and ground control technologies to fit to every project’s unique needs. GCP’s technical specialists work to provide solutions to overcome project geotechnical challenges around the world.

*Referenced results are based on internal and external test data. Results may vary due to temperature conditions, mix design, cementitious materials content and aggregate gradations.