Effect of sepiolite on retention and drainage of suspensions of fiber–reinforced cement

This research is focused on the study of the effect of rheological grade sepiolite on flocculation, retention and drainage of fiber–cement suspensions by using a focused beam reflectance measurement probe and a vacuum drainage tester. Results show that the sepiolite could be used in the manufacture of fiber–cement to increase the retention of solids and the drainage rate especially in mixtures containing poly(vinylalcohol) fibers.