Effects of the molecular architecture of comb-shaped superplasticizers on their performance in cementitious systems

The objective of this study is to link the molecular structure of polycarboxylate-ether-type superplasticizers with the performance of cementitious systems in order to develop new products with enhanced properties, e.g. improved water reduction with a wide range of cements or a reduced retardation of cement hydration. Different experimental superplasticizers have been synthesized varying length and density of the polyether chains as well as the molecular weight of the polymer. The influence of these polymers on the properties of cement pastes and mortars was determined using various characterization methods like mortar flow, rheological and calorimetric measurements, adsorption measurements and mortar compressive strength.Characteristic connections between molecular structure of the polycarboxylate-type water reducers, adsorption behaviour, workability and retarding effect have been determined allowing the synthesis of new superplasticizers with improved performance.