The word "admixtures" is spelled as "ædˈmɪkstʃərz". The first syllable is pronounced as "ad" with the short "a" sound and followed by the schwa sound. The second syllable is pronounced as "mik" with the short "i" sound followed by the "k" sound. The third syllable is pronounced as "stʃ" with the "s" sound and the "tʃ" sound combined. The fourth syllable is pronounced as "ərz" with the schwa sound and followed by the "z" sound. This word is commonly used in the construction industry to refer to materials added to concrete to enhance its properties.
Admixtures refer to substances or materials that are added to a mixture, usually a concrete or mortar mixture, in order to modify or enhance its properties. These substances are typically added in small quantities and their purpose is to improve the workability, durability, strength, or other characteristics of the mixture.
Admixtures can be classified into different categories based on their functions. For example, plasticizers are admixtures that improve the workability of the mixture by reducing the amount of water required to achieve a desired consistency. They allow the mixture to flow more easily without sacrificing its strength.
Another category of admixtures is accelerators, which speed up the rate of hydration or hardening of the mixture. This is particularly useful in cold weather conditions where a faster curing time is necessary. Retarders, on the other hand, slow down the hydration process, extending the working time of the mixture. This can be helpful in hot weather or when transporting the mixture over long distances.
Other types of admixtures include air-entraining agents, which introduce small air voids into the mixture to improve its freeze-thaw resistance, and waterproofing agents, which enhance the water resistance of the hardened material.
Overall, admixtures play a crucial role in modern construction practices, allowing engineers and contractors to tailor the properties of concrete and mortar mixtures to meet specific project requirements.
The word "admixtures" is derived from the Latin word "admixtura", which is the feminine form of the past participle "admixtus" (past participle of "admiscere"). "Admiscere" is composed of the prefix "ad-" (meaning "to" or "towards") and the verb "miscere" (meaning "to mix"). Therefore, the etymology of "admixtures" can be traced back to the Latin term "admixtura", indicating something that is mixed together or added to a substance.