Efficiency of grinding stabilizers in cement clinker processing

Stabilizers are commonly used in the production of very finely ground particulate materials. Doping with such additives is an absolutely essential process step in the production of ultra-fine and nano-fine solids; in all cases, the additives work as inhibitors that prevent the re-agglomeration of fine particles. Such additives, which are well known in both dry grinding and wet grinding processes, help to decrease the enormous energy consumption of cement production. This paper describes the essential features of stabilizers used in Portland clinker grinding processes. The results of milling experiments employing twelve commercially used and experimental additives are described. Their effectiveness in producing ultrafine (0–30 μm) particles varied widely. Novel acrylate-based grinding stabilizers showed considerable promise for the production of very fine cement clinkers.

► Passivation of surface groups is the basic way to obtain ultrafine particles. ► Grinding stabilizers prevents the re-agglomeration of particles in grinding stock. ► Grinding stabilizers decrease the energy consumed in Portland clinker production. ► A total of 168 milling runs were undertaken to evaluate the effects of stabilizers. ► The new generation of acrylate-based grinding stabilizers is promising.