Ultracolor Plus FA is a high performance, fast setting, polymer modified, fiber reinforced, shrinkage compensated cement based patching compound. It is used for the repair of concrete surfaces including highways, bridge decks, parking structures, tunnels, dams and other infrastructure. Determining the proper mixing ratio for Ultracolor Plus FA is important to achieve optimal performance.
Introduction
Ultracolor Plus FA is manufactured by TCC Materials and is part of their Ultracolor Plus family of concrete repair products. It utilizes advanced cement chemistry to provide a patch that has very low shrinkage, meaning it won’t crack as it cures like traditional concrete and patching compounds. The polymer modification provides excellent adhesion to existing concrete and helps to reduce cracks. The fiber reinforcement gives the patch strength and durability. The fast setting feature allows the patch to be open to traffic quickly.
Mixing Ratios
The mixing ratio refers to the proportions of powder, water and any aggregates or additives that make up a batch of Ultracolor Plus FA. Following the manufacturer’s recommended mixing ratios is critical to gain the performance benefits of the product. Ultracolor Plus FA is designed to be mixed with water only, no additional aggregates are required.
According to the TCC Materials product data sheet, the mixing ratio for Ultracolor Plus FA is:
- Water: 2.75 – 3.25 quarts (2.6 – 3.1 liters) per 55 lb (25 kg) bag
- Powder: 1 bag (55 lbs or 25 kg)
This equates to a water to powder ratio of approximately 0.09 to 0.11 by weight. The exact amount of water to use will depend on the desired consistency but should be within this recommended range. Using too little water can make placement difficult while too much water will negatively impact strength and curing. Most projects aim for a mix in the middle of the range.
Mixing Process
Proper mixing is key to activating the cement chemistry and ensuring a consistent, quality repair. The following process should be used when mixing Ultracolor Plus FA per the manufacturer’s instructions:
- Add 2.75 quarts (minimum) of cool, clean water to the mixing container
- Gradually add 1 bag of Ultracolor Plus FA powder while continuing to mix
- Mix for 3-5 minutes until lump free, adding up to 0.5 quarts additional water if needed
- Add additional powder or water in small increments if further adjustment to the consistency is needed
- Mix for a total of 5 minutes maximum to activate chemistry
Mechanical mixing with a low-speed drill and mixing paddle provides the best results. Hand mixing can be used for smaller batches but make sure the powder is thoroughly blended with the water. Do not overmix as that can cause performance issues.
Application and Curing
It is important to place Ultracolor Plus FA immediately after mixing so it can begin curing and hardening. The working time is approximately 15 minutes after water is added. Apply by gloved hand, trowel or screed to patch area. Ensure proper consolidation and compacting. Finish with a trowel or broom for texture.
In normal conditions (70°F/21°C), Ultracolor Plus FA can be opened to foot traffic in 2-3 hours and to vehicle traffic in 4-6 hours. Colder temperatures will extend curing times. Allow the patch to cure for 24 hours before direct exposure to water.
Mix Design Adjustments
The standard Ultracolor Plus FA mixing ratio using only water is suitable for most repair applications. However, the product also provides flexibility to modify the mix design when needed:
- Extend set time – Replace up to 15% of the mix water with clean ice to slow the set for placements in hot weather
- Accelerate set time – Replace up to 5% of the mix water with TCC Materials’ Accel-Pak additive for faster strength gain
- Increase fluidity – Up to 6 ounces of TCC Materials’ Mid Range Water Reducer can be used per bag
When using any admixtures, the total water content should still be within the recommended 2.75 to 3.25 quarts per bag. Pre-blend any admixtures with the water prior to adding the powder.
Typical Application Example
Here is an example Ultracolor Plus FA application to demonstrate the typical mixing and application process:
- Project: Highway concrete repair
- Damaged area: 16″ x 8″ x 3″ deep
- Required bags: 1
- Water: 3 quarts
- Prepare repair area by chipping out damaged concrete and cleaning exposed rebar and concrete
- Pour 3 quarts of water into mixing container
- Gradually add 1 bag of Ultracolor Plus FA powder while mixing for 3 minutes
- Mix until uniform consistency is achieved
- Place repair material immediately into prepared area, compacting well
- Screed surface smooth
- Allow to cure for 4-6 hours before reopening for traffic
Conclusion
Following the proper Ultracolor Plus FA mixing ratio is essential to gain optimum performance from this advanced cementitious patching compound. Use water at 2.75 to 3.25 quarts per 55 lb bag while mixing thoroughly for 3-5 minutes. Adjust mix consistency if needed while staying within the recommended water range. Allowing the proper cure time before traffic will ensure a long lasting, durable repair. With the right mix and application, Ultracolor Plus FA provides an excellent solution for highway, infrastructure and structural concrete repairs.
| Component | Mixing Ratio |
|---|---|
| Water | 2.75 – 3.25 quarts per 55 lb bag |
| Ultracolor Plus FA Powder | 1 Bag (55 lbs) |
