The effect of a starch-based stabilizing admixture on a change in the consistency of a concrete mix

Abstract: The article presents the research results into the influence of the content of a chemical-based stabilizing admixture in the form of starch on the change in the consistency of the concrete mix. The assessment of the impact of the stabilizing admixture dosed in the amount of 0.2%, 0.4%, and 0.6% in relation to the mass of cement on the change in consistency was made based on the cone drop test according to PN-EN 12350-2:2019-07. From the prepared concrete mixes, samples were also made for testing concrete density according to PN-EN 12390-7:2019-08 and compressive strength according to PN-EN 12390- 3:2019-07. For the developed composition of the concrete mix, a standard (reference) mix was prepared, which was used to compare the test results from samples containing admixture in different amounts. Based on the tests carried out, it was found that the applied stabilizing admixture based on starch with a different percentage share concerning the mass of cement significantly reduces the consistency. The use of an admixture in the case of a concrete mix with too high consistency gives the possibility of changing its purpose without affecting the other parameters. Keywords: Concrete mix; Starch; Concrete consistency