Retarding effectiveness of hexitols on the hydration of the silicate phases of cement: Interaction with the aluminate and sulfate phases

This study focuses on the relationship between the retardation generated by hexitols (D-glucitol, D-galactitol and d-mannitol) on the hydration of the silicate phases of a white cement and on their interactions with the aluminate and sulfate phases. The impact of the aluminate and sulfate content of cement on their retarding effect was identified. The consumption of the stereoisomers as well as their effects on the ionic composition cement in suspension were studied and compared. The results showed that the aluminate and sulfate content of cement reduces the retarding effect of hexitols on the hydration of its silicate phases. Moreover, they adsorb differently on hydrating cement and complex with ions in solution. The impacts of the adsorption of these alditols on ettringite and of their complexation with aluminate ions in solution on their retarding effect on the hydration of the silicate phases of cement are discussed.