| abstract |
A composition for improving the freeze thaw durability of masonry concrete comprising (i) an alkylaryl polyether alcohol having the formula R-Ø-(OCH2CH2)xOH, wherein R is a C4-C8 alkyl group (preferably branched), Ø represents a phenol group, and "X" represents an integer in the range of 3-70; and (ii) at least one efflorescence control admixture, such as a C8-C30 fatty acid or its salt or derivative. An exemplary masonry concrete composition of the invention comprises an alkylaryl polyether alcohol having the formula R-Ø-(OCH2CH2)xOH, wherein R is a C4-C8 alkyl group, Ø represents a phenol group, and "X" represents an integer in the range of 3-70; the composition, when wet, having essentially zero slump when tested by the standard cone method for measuring slump. Methods of improving the freeze-thaw durability of masonry units are also disclosed. |