Masonry & Hardscape Solutions

Admixtures for producing high-quality manufactured concrete products

Overview

Innovative admixtures for producers of architectural concrete masonry and hardscapes products

We have developed a full line of admixtures designed for dry-cast concrete products. Widely known as the maker of the DRY-BLOCK® system of integral water repellents, we manufacture admixtures to control efflorescence and enhance the production of architectural concrete block, concrete pavers and segmental retaining wall units. 

OPTEC® offers admixtures to control primary and secondary efflorescence while QUANTEC® offers plasticizers, accelerators and strength enhancers to improve overall quality and enhance production.

DRY-BLOCK® System

The standard in integral water repellents

DRY-BLOCK® is the most widely specified integral water repellent system on the market. It is designed to resist moisture penetration of both concrete masonry units and mortar.
 
The DRY-BLOCK® System consists of two separate components which are added to the concrete mix. The first, DRY-BLOCK® Block Admixture, is mixed curing the manufacture of the concrete masonry unit. The second, DRY-BLOCK® Mortar Admixture, is added to the mortar.

While the system cures, the admixtures within the masonry unit and the mortar become locked in, offering waterproof protection that will last for the lifetime of the structure.

QUANTEC®

A complete range of solutions for high-volume producers of low-slump and no-slump concrete

Our QUANTEC® line admixtures provide a multitude of benefits including improve plasticity and machinability, which results in greater throughput, enhanced compressive strength and durability and reduced absorption.

OPTEC®

Performance Enhancement for architectural CMU and hardscapes

Most hardscape producers battle efflorescence on a daily basis. Our OPTEC® line of admixtures are designed to control all types of efflorescence. At the same time they also help improve color intensity and physical properties. With OPTEC®, the end product is strong, is durable and repels water. And, of course, all OPTEC® admixtures make concrete highly workable to lower production cycle times.

Field Technical Services

Our experts are at your service to solve production challenges. Whether you're concerned about a quality issue or need to expand your product lines to meet your customers' needs, we're here to help.

Our field technical services include:

  • On-site product trials and testing
  • Plant process improvements
  • Certification training for DRY-BLOCK® System producers
  • On-site and remote technical support and troubleshooting

Products & Accessories

Products

Architectural finish

Impermeable

  • Product Name
  • Description
  • Key Benefits
  • Applications Type
OPTEC® EC-935 Data Sheet
Description

 

OPTEC® EC-935 is a liquid admixture added to the concrete during the batching process. It controls efflorescence in pavers, segmental retaining wall units and other low slump concrete products. It also provides workability, increased strengths and a tight surface texture.

Key Benefits
  • Reduced efflorescence
  • Smoother, denser surface
  • Set-time control
  • Sharper corners and edges
Application Type

  • Product Name
  • Description
  • Key Benefits
  • Applications Type
#1727 Pallet Oil Concentrate Data Sheet
Description

#1727 Pallet Oil Concentrate is a blend of oxygenated hydrocarbons and water displacing chemicals that make an extremely effective pallet oil when combined with fuel oil, diesel fuel, or kerosene. #1727 Pallet Oil Concentrate can be used on all block pallets and other equipment where rust or concrete build-up is a concern.

When combined with fuel oil, #1727 Pallet Oil Concentrate meets the needs for a non-staining lubricant for ABC Curing Systems. #1727 Pallet Oil Concentrate lowers the push pressure on the hydraulic ram and improves lubricity resulting in a cleaner pallet conveyer.

Key Benefits
Application Type
DRY-BLOCK® Mortar Admixture Data Sheet

Architectural finish

Description

An integral water repellent admixture specially designed to disperse throughout the mixture during manufacture of the block so that a uniform level of water repellency is achieved. Utilizing patented polymer technology, a long-term water repellency is developed.

Key Benefits
  • Improved machinability
  • Uniform surface finish
  • Improved workability
  • Hardened mortar properties including bond strength
Application Type

The DRY-BLOCK System has been successfully used on thousands of masonry structures to provide moisture control.

DRY-BRICK™ Data Sheet
Description

DRY-BRICKMortar Admixture is formulated based on a patented technology. It is a liquid, integral water repellent admixture for masonry mortar. When DRY-BRICK Mortar Admixture is added at its recommended dosage rate, the wicking property of the mortar is dramatically reduced.

Key Benefits
  • Provides water-repellent mortar
  • Minimizes efflorescence at the mortar joint
  • Improves workability
  • Packaged for easy job site use
Application Type
OPTEC® EC-140 Data Sheet
Description

OPTEC® EC-140 admixture offers a new level of efflorescence control to the concrete hardscape industry. It is formulated as a ready-to-use admixture to enhance the quality and appearance of concrete pavers and segmental retaining wall units.

Key Benefits
  • Controls primary and secondary efflorescence
  • Improves color consistency
  • Reduces feed and finish times
  • Improves cement utilization
Application Type

OPTEC® EC-140 admixture has been especially designed for the efficient production of concrete pavers and segmental retaining wall units.

OPTEC® EC-191 Data Sheet
Description

OPTEC® EC-191 admixture is specially formulated to control primary efflorescence by reacting with alkaline salts before water can solubilize them. It is a ready-to-use admixture to enhance the quality and appearance of masonry units.

Key Benefits
  • Controls primary and secondary efflorescence
  • Improves color consistency
  • Provides short-term water repellency
  • Reduces culls
Application Type

Efficient production of hardscape concrete products like segmental retaining wall units and concrete paving stones.

OPTEC® EC-250 Data Sheet
Description

 

OPTEC® EC-250 admixture is designed to enhance the quality and appearance of concrete pavers, segmental retaining wall units and other low slump concrete products. OPTEC® EC-250 admixture controls secondary efflorescence thus enhancing color. It also provides excellent mix plasticity and machinability which helps reduce overall production cycle times.

Key Benefits
  • Minimizes secondary efflorescence
  • Increased throughput
  • Increases densities
Application Type
OPTEC® EC-912 Data Sheet
Description

OPTEC® EC-912 is an innovative admixture specifically formulated to enhance the overall appearance of architectural and hardscape concrete masonry units. OPTEC EC-912, through its novel chemistry, improves color vibrancy and controls both primary and secondary efflorescence. OPTEC EC-912 provides a light swipe on the surface of the unit.

Key Benefits
  • Lowers water absorption
  • Controls primary and secondary efflorescence
  • Optimized for dosage efficiency
  • Improves cement and pigment dispersion
Application Type
OPTEC® EC-925 Data Sheet
Description

OPTEC® EC-925 is an innovative admixture specifically formulated to enhance the overall appearance of hardscapes and architectural concrete masonry units.

Key Benefits
  • Controls primary and secondary efflorescence
  • Optimized for dosage efficiency
  • Improves cement and pigment dispersion
Application Type

OPTEC EC-925 is typically used at a rate of 2-4 oz./cwt (130-260 mL/100 kg) of cementitious materials including pozzolans. The addition rate is dependent upon the specific set of materials and the desired end properties.

OPTEC® EC-978 Data Sheet
Description

OPTEC® EC-978 admixture provides color enhancement and efflorescence control to the concrete roof tile industry. It is formulated as a ready-to-use admixture to aid the extrusion process and enhance the quality and appearance of concrete roof tile.

Key Benefits
  • Improves cement and pigment dispersion
  • Minimizes efflorescence
  • Enhances color
  • Aids extrusion process
  • Lowers absorption
  • Improves compressive strengths
Application Type

OPTEC® EC-978 admixture is especially designed for the efficient production of concrete roof tile.

OPTEC® Paver Enhancer Data Sheet
Description

OPTEC® Paver Enhancer is an innovative admixture specifically formulated to enhance the physical properties and overall appearance of concrete Pavers and Segmented Retaining Wall (SRW) units. OPTEC® Paver Enhancer can enhance color dispersion and help minimize secondary efflorescence. It provides excellent mix plasticity for improved physical attributes and machinability.

Key Benefits
  • Improves cement and pigment dispersion
  • Cement and pigment reduction potential
  • Improves compressive strength
  • Minimizes secondary efflorescence
  • Decreases cycle time
  • Increases density
  • Lowers absorption
Application Type

OPTEC® Paver Enhancer may be used in concrete pavers, segmental retaining wall units and other low slump concrete products where improved physical properties and aesthetics are desired.

QUANTEC® PL-400 Data Sheet
Description

QUANTEC® PL-400 is a specially formulated plasticizing admixture using the latest dispersant technologies on the market. QUANTEC® PL-400 is designed for use in the manufacture of machine produced concrete products where the process requires zero or very low slump concrete. QUANTEC® PL-400 is supplied as a ready-to-use liquid.

Key Benefits
  • Increased strength
  • Faster cycle times
  • Reduced cracking and crazing
Application Type
QUANTEC® PL-466 Data Sheet
Description

QUANTEC® PL-466 admixture is specially formulated for use in the manufacture of machined concrete products where the process requires zero or low slump concrete and where a smoother, denser, surface finish with a swipe is desirable.

Key Benefits
  • Faster cycle time
  • Smoother, denser surface
  • Reduced cracking and crazing
  • Increased plasticity
  • Sharper corners and edges
  • Fewer culls
  • Cost effective
Application Type

QUANTEC® PL-466 admixture may be used in all zero or low slump concrete to increase workability while retaining cohesiveness.

QUANTEC® PL-477R Data Sheet
Description

QUANTEC® PL-477R admixture is specially formulated for use in the manufacture of machined concrete products where the process requires zero or low slump concrete, and where a normal textured surface is desired.

Key Benefits
  • Faster cycle time
  • Low use cost
  • Increased plasticity
  • Reduced cracking and crazing
  • Sharper corners and edges
  • Uniform texture
  • Fewer culls
Application Type

QUANTEC® PL-477R admixture is intended for use in concrete block, concrete pipe, concrete roof tile and concrete brick.

QUANTEC® PL-488 Data Sheet
Description

QUANTEC® PL-488 admixture is specifically formulated for use in the manufacture of concrete block, concrete pavers, concrete pipe, and other concrete products where the process requires zero or low slump concrete and where a smooth, tight, surface finish with a swipe is desirable. QUANTEC® PL-488 admixture is formulated to improve workability and increase strength.

Key Benefits
  • Increased throughput
  • Smoother, denser surface
  • Reduced cracking and crazing
Application Type
QUANTEC® PL-490 Data Sheet
Description

QUANTEC® PL-490 admixture is a concentrated plasticizer specially formulated for use in the production of concrete block, concrete, pipe and other low slump concrete products where a smooth, tight surface with a light swipe is preferred. QUANTEC® PL-490 admixture is supplied as a liquid concentrate but it is intended to be used in a diluted form.

Key Benefits
  • Light swipe
  • Increased throughput
  • Sharper corners and edges
  • Fewer culls
  • Cost effective
  • Smoother, denser surface
  • Better compaction
Application Type

QUANTEC® PL-490 admixture may be used in all zero or low slump concrete to increase workability while retaining cohesiveness, and to provide for more complete hydration of the cement.

QUANTEC® PL-495R Data Sheet
Description

QUANTEC® PL-495R admixture is a concentrated plasticizer specially formulated for use in concrete block, concrete pipe and other zero or low slump concrete products where a normal textured surface is desired. QUANTEC® PL-495R admixture is supplied as a liquid concentrate, but it is intended to be used in a diluted form.

Key Benefits
  • Normal texture
  • Increased throughput
  • Sharper corners and edges
  • Fewer culls
Application Type

QUANTEC® PL-495R admixture may be used in all zero or low slump concrete to increase workability while retaining cohesiveness and to provide for more complete hydration of the cement.

QUANTEC® ULTRA ES Data Sheet
Description

QUANTEC® ULTRA-ES admixture is a high performance cement dispersant based on a patented technology.

Key Benefits
  • Improves cement utilization
  • Reduces feed and finish times
  • Increases compressive and strengths
  • Reduces culls
Application Type

QUANTEC® ULTRA-ES admixture is a superior dispersant with a marked capacity to break up the cement agglomerates normally found in high cement content, dry-cast concrete mixtures.

The Importance of Using DRY-BLOCK® Mortar Admixture
Description

DRY-BLOCK® Mortar Admixture, part of the DRY-BLOCK System, is formulated based on a patented technology. It is a liquid, integral water-repellent, bond-enhancing admixture for masonry mortar. Tests demonstrate that DRY-BLOCK Mortar Admixture increases the flexural bond of both Portland cement/Lime and Masonry cement mortars to CMUs.

Key Benefits

Provides water-repellent mortar

• Enhances bond between mortar & concrete masonry units

• Minimizes efflorescence at the mortar joint

• Improves workability

• Packaged for easy job site use

Application Type
TRYSTA® Data Sheet
Description

TRYSTA® freeze/thaw durability-enhancing admixture is based on patented technology. It is for zero slump concrete applications such as segmental retaining wall units and concrete pavers, which are exposed to environments of repeated freezing and thawing.

Key Benefits
  • Enhances freeze/thaw durability
  • Reduces feed and finish times
  • Reduces culls
Application Type

TRYSTA® admixture provides dramatically improved freeze/thaw durability to manufactured concrete products

Accessories

  • Accessory Name
  • Description
  • Key Benefits
  • Applications Type
Pallet Lub 205 Data Sheet
Description

Water soluble release agent for the top ring, spindle, and pallet of a pipe machine. Creates a smooth, slippery barrier between the metal surface of the pallet and the concrete.

Key Benefits
Application Type
RELEASE CRETE™ Data Sheet
Description

RELEASER™ is a petrochemical formulation that has benefits that are unavailable from any competitive release agent.

Key Benefits
  • Offers maximum protection to steel, aluminum, wood and fiberglass forms
  • Cast concrete unit will not discolor
  • Minimizes the residue that prevent bonding of paint to cast pieces
Application Type
VF-146 Data Sheet
Description

VF-146 is a low density cementitious grout suitable for many applications.

Key Benefits
  • Non-toxic—The factory-mixed blend of common Portland cement and other inert materials requires only the addition of water for mixing and application.
  • Equipment Versatility—VF-146 can be mixed in standard plaster mixer.
  • Factory Pre-mixed—Ready to use. No job site proportioning required. Simply add water in a standard paddle-type plaster mixer and apply with conventional plastering equipment.
Application Type
  • VF-146 is suitable for use whenever controlled, low strength, lightweight materials are required.