Product Description
MIRA® 88 is a Mid-Range water reducer designed to cover several concrete applications, under all seasonal conditions. It can be used at a range of dosage levels to reduce water content and to increase consistence in concrete mixtures.
MIRA® 88 is formulated from carefully selected blends of both synthetic and naturally derived raw materials based on modified lignosulphonates and is a powerful deflocculant. Depending on addition rate, MIRA® 88 conforms to EN 934-2.
Advantages
- MIRA® 88 yields exceptional ultimate compressive strength and is effective over a wide range of cement contents
- Imparts excellent consistence retention
- Produces plasticised and high-consistence concrete when used at increased dosages
- Exhibits predictable retardation characteristics
- Compatible with ggbs and fly ash concretes
- Increases cement economics
- Aids cohesion of concrete
- Multi-role capabilities
Typical Properties
Appearance |
Dark Brown Liquid |
Specific Gravity (20°C) |
1.125 |
Alkali Content (eq.Na2O) |
1.00% |
Chloride Content |
Nil |
Air Entrainment |
1.0% |
Freezing Point |
0ºC |
Method Of Use
MIRA® 88 is supplied ready for use. It should be added in its supplied form with part of the batching water after the addition of the cement. It should not be added directly to the cement.
No extension of normal mixing time is necessary, except when high consistence concrete is being produced on site. When used in this manner, it can be added to a normal concrete mix before the pour is made and must be mixed for a minimum of two minutes.
Compatibility
With Cements:
MIRA® 88 can be used with most types of Portland cements. It is also effective in concrete containing fly ash or ground granulated blastfurnace slag. For use with special cements we recommend contacting GCP Applied Technologies.
With Other Admixtures:
MIRA® 88 is fully compatible with all Grace admixtures normally used in concrete production.
Each admixture must be added separately. Individually added, each will deliver exactly the results desired.
However, the performance of the material may be affected by the presence of other chemicals and we would recommend that GCP be consulted in such circumstances.
Addition Rates
Range |
300 ml - 800 ml per 100 kg cement |
|
0.30% - 0.80% (v/w) by wt. of cement |
As a guide to trials an addition rate of 0.40% volume by weight of cement is suggested. |
For advice and assistance with trials we recommend that you consult GCP Applied Technologies. |
MIRA® 88 is a versatile, high performance product that benefits from a wide variety of applications. As with most products of this type, level of effectiveness is governed by the quantity of product used and the specific nature of the concrete mix.
The performance of MIRA® 88 is best assessed after preliminary tests using the actual concrete materials to determine the optimum dosage and effect on both plastic and hardened concrete.
Effects of Overdosing
As dosage is increased throughout the recommended range, concrete consistence and retardation of set also increase. The controlled retardation characteristics of MIRA® 88, this will generally be within acceptable levels.
Overdosing, particularly in cold weather; will be accompanied by retardation of set of the concrete. Providing overdosed concrete is properly cured, the ultimate strength will generally be higher than that of a normal concrete.
Planned overdosing outside the recommended range should be further discussed with the Technical Service department of GCP.
Any situation where an overdose is suspected, careful inspection of the concrete in its plastic state should be conducted. Particular attention to consistency and cohesiveness prior to a decision on the suitability of the concrete for the particular application in question.
Dispensing
It is preferable that the MIRA® 88 should be introduced into the mixer by automatic dispensing equipment.
Equipment or advice on dispensing can be obtained from GCP
Health and Safety
For further information on Health and Safety matters regarding this product we recommend that you consult the relevant Material Safety Data Sheet from GCP.
In line with general chemical handling precautions avoid contact with skin or eyes and protective gloves/goggles should be worn.
Packaging
MIRA® 88 is supplied in both 15 and 205 non returnable drums and 1,000 litre totes.
Alternatively, bulk deliveries can be arranged.
Storage
MIRA® 88 should be stored away from the extremes of temperature and then protected from frost. If the product does freeze, it should be thawed and carefully re-mixed before use. The product should be kept out of direct sunlight in shaded storage at all times
Storage Life in Manufacturer ‘s Drums:
12 months from date of manufacture.
Storage Life in Bulk Storage:
12 months from date of delivery.
Technical Service
Our Technical Service department of GCP Applied Technologies is available to assist you in the correct use of our performance chemicals.