North Carolina General Contractors Practice Exam

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Why are retarders utilized when making concrete?

  1. To enhance curing temperatures

  2. To slow the setting rate

  3. To increase the compressive strength

  4. To improve color consistency

The correct answer is: To slow the setting rate

Retarders are utilized in the making of concrete primarily to slow the setting rate. This is particularly useful in various situations, such as when temperatures are high, or when there are longer transportation times from the mixing site to the job site. By extending the setting time, retarders allow for better workability, making it easier for workers to place and finish the concrete before it hardens. While other options might seem relevant, such as enhancing curing temperatures or increasing compressive strength, those functions are not the primary role of retarders. Additionally, improving color consistency might be an objective in specific formulations, but it is not the main reason for using retarders in concrete mixtures. Thus, the primary purpose of retarders is their ability to slow down the hydration process, granting more time for various construction activities before the concrete begins to set.