Much specialised and factual heuristic knowledge on the use of admixtures in concrete has been gained through research and field experience. Effective dissemination of this knowledge should result in obtaining maximum benefit from these materials. Expert systems appear to be an effective means of transferring the knowledge on the use of admixtures obtained through laboratory, field studies and experience to engineers and designers responsible for design, construction and maintenance of concrete structures.

A prototype expert system called ESCAD has been developed to give recommendations on the selection of concrete admixtures. The purpose of developing ESCAD was to demonstrate the application of expert systems to improve the process of selecting construction materials. Construction of the system was facilitated by the use of the Leonardo expert system shell, which resulted in an object-orientated structure, helpful for the development of the system and in simplifying maintenance.

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