A new rheology-controlling admixture that offers the ability to overcome placement challenges associated with low-slump mixtures is described. The advantages include increased production rates, reduced vibration requirements for consolidation, and reduced equipment wear. It also improves placing and finishing and the performance of mixtures that include manufactured sand, while minimizing slump of unformed edges and enhancing surface appearance.

Using advanced algorithms that optimize the performance and cost of a mixture through improved particle packing and continuous process control, a computerized mixture proportioning and quality control system provides improvements in production consistency, quality, and profits while reducing the environmental impact associated with concrete production. Producers gain these benefits without redesigning their concrete plants or changing their existing raw materials. Producers have found that the system can help them provide normal and high-performance concretes that are also the most cost-effective and environmentally-friendly products possible.