Recommendations for the Ready Mix Producer

Do not use calcium chloride with color pigments. It tends to cause discoloration/blotches.

• When using powder pigments in disintegrating/ repulpable bags, add as described below. When mixing times are short or the aggregates are especially small, it is then recommended to pour the pigment from the bag into the mix in the sequence above. The recommended sequence for adding pigment using batch mixing is:
  (1) Add carefully weighed aggregates (sand, stone, gravel, etc.). (2) Add 1/2 to 2/3 of total batch water to mixer. (3) Add exact amount of pigment (dry or slurry form) and begin mixing at charging speed for a minimum of 1 minute. (4) Add accurate amount of cement, approved admixtures, and remaining water. Mix for minimum of 5 minutes at high speed.


• Any changes in raw materials – including their size, inherent color, moisture content, or their amounts – can affect the final color of the project. Therefore, keep all raw materials (sand, cement, and aggregates especially) as consistent as possible throughout the entire project, and monitor water addition carefully.


• Be sure concrete loads have consistent mix times, and that delivery and discharge times are as quick as possible. Overmixing (longer than 1/2 hours) affects color consistency.


• Air content, especially in freeze/thaw climates, should be 5-7%. Air entrainment is only necessary if your climate dictates.


• Slump should be consistent, and less than 5 inches (125mm) . It is recommended to use plasticizers instead of adding more water to achieve a slump of greater than 5 inches.


• Water has a tremendous effect on final color. Too much water tends to lighten the color of the project – it looks "pale" or "washed out." If better flowability is required, use a plasticizer or water-reducing admixture instead.


• Clean mixer thoroughly at the end of the job.
  Begin each new color with a clean drum.


• Do not overload the mixer as this reduces mixing efficiency. By the same token, mixer should be loaded to a minimum of 40% capacity for a good color mix.

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