Abstract: A composition for use as an additive for enhancing the strength of a cementitious composition, the composition comprising an alkanolamine comprising ethanoldiisopropanolamine (EDIPA) and optionally at least one selected from the group consisting of triisopropanolamine (TIPA), diethanolisopropanolamine (DEIPA), triethanol amine (TEA), and tetrakis-(2-hydroxyethyl)ethylenediamine (THEED); at least one set retarder selected from the group consisting of a gluconate salt, sucrose, corn syrup, and molasses; and at least one set accelerator selected from the group consisting of a thiocyanate salt, sodium chloride, and calcium chloride, wherein the alkanolamine and the set accelerator are present at a mass ratio of from 0.2 to 4.0 and the set accelerator and the set retarder are present at a mass ratio of from 1 to 10. The additive enhances the short term and long-term strength of cement when hydrated.

Abstract: Compositions and methods of the present invention comprise the use of at least one alkoxylated fatty compound comprising at least one propylene oxide group, the alkoxylated fatty compound having a turbidity most preferably greater than 1000 NTU (as measured in a 0.2 weight percent aqueous solution) and carbon dispersing compound (e.g., lignosulfonate) to reduce carbon spotting in mortars and concretes containing a carbon-bearing fly ash having a methylene blue (MB) value of at least 1 mg/g or greater (as 10 determined according to ASTM C1777-13). The compositions may, for example, be combined as dry powder with the carbon-bearing fly ash where the fly ash is produced, or in aqueous liquid composition form, such as would be suitable for dispensing at a concrete ready-mix plant. Exemplary additive or admixture compositions may further comprise air entraining agents, alkanolamines, or both.