Abstract
Viscosity-modifying admixtures (VMAs) are essential to control the stability and cohesion of modern concrete. This chapter focuses on polymeric VMAs as they allow a higher variability of structural variations. They enhance the stability of the mix by increasing one or several rheological parameters at the same time. Their mechanism of action depends on the nature of the VMA and the presence of other admixtures in the mix. In general, water retention admixtures delay cement hydration while the influence of other VMAs on cement hydration depends on its chemical composition. In practice, problems of incompatibility between specific combinations of VMAs and superplasticizers must be avoided. These could lead to a quick loss of fluidity without much improvement in the stability of concrete. The understanding of the mechanism of action of the different types of polymers may decrease the risk of having such problems on site.
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