Optimizing the Cement Rheology and Hydrophobicity Using Polycarboxylate Ether (PCE)-Based Grinding Aids

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Traditional amine-based grinding aids in cement production have limitations.
• Developing advanced additives is crucial for improving cementitious material properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the performance of novel polymer-based grinding aids (A1-A3) compared to amine-based additives.
• To analyze the impact of these aids on the hydrophobicity and rheological behavior of Portland cement.
• To elucidate the mechanisms behind the enhanced performance of polymer grinding aids.

Main Methods:

• Systematic evaluation of six grinding aids: three synthesized polycarboxylate ether (PCE) polymers and three commercial amine products.
• Measurement of key properties: surface tension, water contact angle (WCA), slump flow, FT-IR spectra, and rheological parameters.
• Analysis of interactions between grinding aids and cement particles.

Main Results:

• The A2 polymer demonstrated superior performance, achieving a high WCA (131.7°), low surface tension (56.7 dyn/cm), and excellent slump flow (25 cm).
• FT-IR spectroscopy indicated strong interactions between the A2 polymer and cement particles, especially in CH3 bonding regions.
• Rheological tests showed that A2 significantly reduced viscosity and improved shear stress response, confirming enhanced dispersion and water reduction.

Conclusions:

• Polymer-based grinding aids, particularly the A2 polymer, offer significant advantages over traditional amine-based additives.
• The A2 polymer effectively enhances cement hydrophobicity, fluidity, and dispersion capabilities.
• This study validates polymer-based grinding technology as a promising, eco-efficient approach for improving cementitious systems.