IS 9103:2009 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for admixtures for concrete - specification. This standard provides the specifications for various types of chemical admixtures intended for use in concrete. It classifies admixtures and outlines their physical and chemical requirements, including effects on workability, setting time, strength, and limits on harmful substances like chlorides.
Specifies requirements for various types of chemical admixtures for concrete, including plasticizers, superplasticizers, retarders, and accelerators.
Overview
- Status
- Current
- Usage level
- Frequently Used
- Domain
- Materials Science — Admixtures and Chemical Products for Concrete
- Type
- Specification
- Amendments
- Amendment No. 1 (August 2013)
Also on InfraLens for IS 9103
BIM-relevant code. See the BIM Hub for ISO 19650, IFC, and LOD/LOIN frameworks used alongside it.
Practical Notes
! Always conduct compatibility tests between the specific cement, aggregates, and admixture before mass use, as performance can vary.
! Adhere strictly to the manufacturer's recommended dosage range; overdosing or underdosing can lead to significant problems like excessive retardation, segregation, or loss of strength.
! Ensure the specified chloride content is appropriate for the application (plain, reinforced, or prestressed concrete) to prevent long-term corrosion issues.
Frequently referenced clauses
Updates & Amendments1 amendment
Amendment No. 1 (August 2013)
Consolidated list per BIS. For the text of each amendment, refer to the BIS portal link above.
concrete admixturesplasticizerssuperplasticizersretardersacceleratorsconcrete
International Equivalents
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International Comparison — Coming Soon
We're adding equivalent international standards for this code.
Key Values6
Quick Reference Values
Minimum water reduction for Plasticizer5%
Minimum water reduction for Superplasticizer12%
Maximum chloride content for Reinforced Concrete0.05% by mass of admixture
Minimum 28-day compressive strength vs control mix100% for most types
Minimum initial setting time extension for Retarder+60 minutes
Maximum final setting time extension for Retarder+600 minutes
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Compliance Requirements for Concrete Admixtures
Table 2 - Maximum Chloride Content of Admixture
Key Clauses
Clause 4 - Classification
Clause 5 - Information to be provided by the Manufacturer
Clause 7 - Physical Requirements
Clause 8 - Chemical Requirements
Clause 6 - Sampling and Criteria for Conformity
Frequently Asked Questions4
What are the main types of admixtures covered by IS 9103?+
Water-reducing (plasticizers), high range water-reducing (superplasticizers), retarding, accelerating, and their combinations (e.g., retarding plasticizer). (Clause 4)
What is the maximum permissible chloride content for admixtures in reinforced concrete?+
0.05 percent by mass of the admixture. (Table 2)
How is the performance of a superplasticizer evaluated?+
It must reduce water content by at least 12% while maintaining workability, and the concrete must meet specific setting time and compressive strength criteria compared to a control mix without the admixture. (Table 1)
Can different admixtures be mixed together?+
Mixing of admixtures should be avoided unless their compatibility is proven through trials and recommended by the manufacturer.
QA/QC Inspection Templates
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QA/QC templates coming soon for this code.