Introduction
Produced by BASF, the Fortune 500 surface and material science company, MetaMax ® high reactivity metakaolin is a supplementary cementitious material that improves the performance and appearance of portland cement concrete and cement-based products. When added to a concrete mixture, MetaMax reacts with calcium hydroxide, a byproduct of cement hydration, to form additional cementitious material. As a result, MetaMax increases the strength and durability of the concrete.
Unlike most supplementary cementitious materials, MetaMax is a white powder that brightens concrete. It improves the appearance of concrete by creating a richer, creamier cement paste that enhances concrete workability and allows you to create higher quality finishes. Plus, it reduces surface imperfections including mottling, cracking and efflorescence.
MetaMax high reactivity metakaolin (HRM) is an ultrafine natural pozzolan and complies with ASTM C 618Standard Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan for Use as a Mineral Admixture in Concrete, Class N.
MetaMax is also similar in performance to silica fume and can be considered as an alternative to materials specified under ASTM C1240 Standard Specification for Silica Fume Used in Cementitious Mixtures. The primary differences between high reactivity metakaolin and silica fume are:
- HRM is manufactured specifically for use in concrete, whereas silica fume is an industrial byproduct.
- Silica fume particles have greater surface area than HRM due to silica fume's smaller particle size; this additional surface area increases the water demand of concrete mixtures with silica fume and makes the concrete "sticky" and difficult to finish and cure correctly.
- Silica fume has at least 85% silica content. While HRM has a lower percentage of silica, HRM is also rich in aluminum compounds that react synergistically with silica to create a highly reactive pozzolan.
For additional tips on choosing the right pozzolan, click here »
MetaMax also improves the environmental impact of concrete. By reducing the amount of portland cement used in concrete, MetaMax cuts the green-house gas emissions associated with portland cement manufacturing. In addition, it can be used with white portland cement to reduce the solar absorption that produces the urban heat island effect.
The performance and reliability of MetaMax have been demonstrated in scores of research studies and proven in construction projects throughout the world.
It is specified by leading architectural and engineering firms and governmental agencies and approved by several state Departments of Transportation. MetaMax is produced under ISO 9002 quality control certification and is available worldwide.
Three grades of MetaMax are offered to suit the full range of concrete applications:
- MetaMax ® high reactivity metakaolin. For most concrete mixtures.
- MetaMax ® PA Especially formulated for use in plaster.
MetaMax ® high reactivity metakaolin
BASF MetaMax® high reactivity metakaolin is recommended for use in ready-mix and precast concrete, concrete masonry units, glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC), and other portland cement-based products where exceptional performance or aesthetics are required. It increases the strength of concrete and reduces its porosity to produce concrete that is more resistant to corrosion, efflorescence, alkali-silica reaction, and other detrimental processes. MetaMax is especially suitable for use in white and colored concrete.
MetaMax is a high reactivity pozzolan that matches or beats silica fume as a performance booster in concrete. But unlike silica fume, MetaMax does not produce a "sticky" mixture so it is easier to place, finish, and cure. And while silica fume is dark grey, MetaMax is bright white so it lightens concrete.
For more information: See MetaMax Technical Data Sheet.
BASF MetaMax® PA (plaster additive) is recommended for use in plaster and stucco. It is especially beneficial in swimming pool plaster that must withstand aggressive chemical environments while maintaining a high level of visual appeal. A high-performance pozzolan, MetaMax PA produces a stronger, more durable plaster finish. It also makes plaster creamier so it is easier to apply and creates a more attractive finish. And its white color is ideal for white and colored plasters and exposed aggregate finishes. Other benefits include reduced permeability, spot etching, cracking, mottling, efflorescence, and “fade” of colored finishes.
For additional information:
- MetaMax Technical Data Sheet
- MetaMax PA High Quality Pozzolanic Additive for Plaster (For the Trade)
- When it Comes to your Pool, Beauty is More than Skin Deep (For Consumers)
- Case Study