Using Superplasticizer in Masonry Grout By Evan Cope, E.I.T. Concrete Materials Engineer Geneva Rock Products
Why Use Superplasticizer in Masonry Grout? High lift grouting is a common practice in today’s masonry industry. It allows masonry walls to be built more efficiently, and at a lower cost. High lift grouting requires a grout with higher slump so the grout can easily flow and consolidate in the lower portions of the masonry walls. Many engineers are specifying grout slumps of 8 to 11 inches. To maintain grout quality at higher slumps, superplasticizer must be used.
Why can’t I just add more water to increase my slump?
Water to Cement Ratio
Segregation
Grout Mix Design – H.R.W.R. vs No H.R.W.R. Constituents Grout w/o H.R.W.R. Grout w/ H.R.W.R. Cement 555 lbs Flyash 125 lbs Pea Gravel 841 lbs Sand 1963 lbs Water 39 gal or 325 lbs Low Range Water Reducer 20 lq oz 13.5 lq oz High Range Water Reducer None 78 lq oz
How Does this Affect Slump? Mix without H.R.W.R. Mix with H.R.W.R.
How H.R.W.R. Works