Abstract: Lime-free admixture compositions comprising a combination of ingredients are disclosed. The ingredients of the lime-free admixture compositions comprise a combination of emulsifiers, toughening resins/plasticizers, adhesive resins, pumping aids for providing lubrication, rheology controllers, water retention agents, water repellants/overcoat finishes, accelerators, liquid adsorbents/water reducers and air entraining agents. The lime-free admixture compositions are total replacements for lime. The ingredients of the lime-free admixture compositions have specific purposes that lead to optimized properties when used in combination with a binder comprising hydraulic cement. The lime-free admixture compositions are non-corrosive, making them safe to use by workers and they have rheological properties that make them suitable for use in various applications including concrete, mortars, grouts and stuccos.

Abstract: A device is disclosed that can automatically remove lids from trays and place lids on trays. Further the device can sense the presence of a lid on a tray and can sense the dimensions of the tray. Based on the sensed dimensions of the tray, the device can select an appropriate sized lid to place on the tray. In one embodiment of the invention, a device holds a lid with a lid manipulator having lid holders. At least one end mechanism is attached to at least one end of the lid manipulator, and the end mechanism folds the lid flaps of an appropriate lid. Guided by the lid manipulator, lids are then positioned on the tray.