Description

This study aims at the study of the effect of polycarboxylic ether superplasticizer on the properties of fresh and hardened concrete. Superplasticizers are frequently used in order to improve the workability of mortar and concrete. The addition of superplasticizers aims at controlling the flow properties and the reduction of the water to cement ratio while maintaining workability in order to reach high strength and durability. Newer superplasticizer generations are based on comb-shaped polycarboxylates (as used in this study, hereinafter called PCE). Their dispersing effect is due to the adsorption of polymers on particle surfaces and the production of electrostatic and/or steric repulsive forces. Polycarboxylate ether based superplasticizer (PCE) is commonly used in concrete technology when high flow properties and water reduction are specified.