BASF's Master Builders Solutions experts have developed a new generation of polymers designed to provide significant improvements in the rheological properties of concrete. Advanced concrete mixes often demonstrate a higher viscosity due to their low water contents. Although having a high level of workability, the concrete often appears harsh, sticky and therefore difficult to pump and process. This is especially true for engineering concrete with low water/cement ratios optimized towards having a low environmental impact.

To overcome these challenges, BASF has developed MasterEase, a new admixture range developed for low-viscosity concrete, and will present this innovation at the ERMCO (European Ready Mix Concrete Organization) Congress in Istanbul.

With the new technology, plastic viscosity can be reduced by up to 30%, which results in a substantial reduction of pumping pressure required to pump the concrete on the construction site. Placing and finishing of the concrete is much easier, faster and hence more economic than using standard concrete. “Innovation is what drives our business. With our new products we want to meet our customers’ needs, contribute to their success and strengthen our connectedness. This is the force behind MasterEase,” says Ralf Spettmann, President Construction Chemicals.

“The new admixture technology enabling these properties is being made available globally under the brand of MasterEase,” said David Bowerman, Regional Business Segment Manager for Orient, Russia and Africa. “Ease stands for easiness of mixing, pumping, placing, leveling and finishing of concrete. After pioneering concrete technology with market leading products like MasterGlenium and Master X-Seed we are proud to present another groundbreaking innovation from Master Builders Solutions to the concrete industry”.