The effects of antifreeze use on physical and mechanical properties of concrete produced in cold weather

This study examined the effects of antifreeze on the physical and mechanical properties of the concrete which are produced in cold weather. 30% Calcium Nitrate and 5% hydroxyethylaminemixture (HEA), Calcium Nitrate (KN) and Polyhydroxy Amine (PA) were used as additives in antifreeze. Prepared concrete samples were placed in a formwork and exposed to the frost at 0 °C, −5 °C, −10 °C, −15 °C and −20 °C for 2 days. Afterwards, concrete samples in the freezer were cured at the room temperature until the 28th day and permeable pore space volume, water absorption ratio, density, capillarity ratio, impermeability, compressive strength, static modulus of elasticity, Poisson’s ratio and tensile strength values of the concrete samples were determined after the curing. In conclusion, 30% Calcium Nitrate and 5% hydroxyethylaminemixture (HEA) were found to be giving the best performance among the antifreeze types. The physical and mechanical properties of the concrete were negatively affected from all antifreeze types due to the temperature decrease of the exposed fresh concrete.

► The effects of cold weather on the physical and mechanical properties of concrete were measured. ► The effects of antifreeze on concrete in cold weathers were determined. ► The effects of concrete properties influencing each other were determined.