I would like to create a small concrete table(~.5m diameter). To do so, I would like to create a concrete mix with smooth texture, similar to Quikrete. Since this product is not available where I live, I was wondering what is the mixture I should use to create the concrete. It's properties should be smoothness (no coarse aggregate), and durability.
I can reinforce it with still /GF if needed.
Any advice where to start?
Concrete – Creating a concrete mix with smooth texture
concrete
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Sounds to me that you have covered all the bases. Maybe you should pay attention to few details:
Connecting old and new concrete; you have mentioned that you plan to do it, make sure that they are well stuck inside of old concrete (you drill slightly smaller hole than bar and hit the bar it with hammer when placed inside a hole. Also, you can chip old concrete (inch or two) so it will connect better with new one. When it comes to posts I haven't seen the picture so it's hard to tell, but if you want to separate it from slab, you can do it by placing thin Styrofoam around posts before pouring concrete. Later on you can leave it or take it out and put some commercial products (make sure that those are for outdoor usage). When it comes to changing the slope I really don’t see why would you do it? Accept if you don't like it. Anyway, if it's not causing any problems my advice is not play with it....I’m not sure it can be done properly.
It's a process, not a "special" material. A good steel trowel job can give a glass-like finish on standard concrete. It's partly technique, and partly timing (or timing is part of the technique.) Troweling knocks down larger particles and brings up smaller ones, resulting in a smooth finish. In many places it's too smooth, IMHO - easy to sweep, but also easy to fall on, especially if damp/wet.
On large jobs a 4 (or more) bladed power trowel is used.
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Best Answer
Isherwood's statement is correct in that basement floors are smooth but the surface is made smooth using a power trowel. A power trowel would be much too large to use for your application.
I suggest using an aggregate free Portland cement and sand (or silica powder if its available). The ratio is typically 1 part cement to 3 parts sand and water of course. The trick to getting a smooth final surface starts after its poured and before it sets. You will need to create or purchase a float that will be used to produce the smooth finish. After you've poured your mix into the mold, level it out and make sure no air pockets are below the surface.
Within a few minutes the setting process begins. This is when you will see a layer of water develop on the surface. Using your float, skim the surface in one direction until the desired smoothness is achieved. It's that simple!
Also, I suggest reinforcing your tabletop with steel. Chicken wire (as it's called around here) should work well or some other mesh type steel. Good luck and post some photos of your final creation!