Performance of a Multifunctional and Multipurpose Superplasticizer for Concrete

Abstract

Recently, due to demands for higher strength and retention of flowability in concrete, polycarboxylate-based superplasticizers (PC) have attracted much attention.Polycarboxylate-based superplasticizers above all, have been recognized to show superior water reducing ability and ability to retain workable consistence. PC has also been an indispensable material for various kinds of high performance concrete, especially for making extremely low water-cement ratios (W/C) possible. Because of a shortage of quality aggregate in Japan and a need to adhere to the maximum water content regulation for concrete durability in which the upper value is limited and the use of PC for water reduction has been increasing. The significance of cracks on durability of concrete has been pointed out in many studies. In order to reduce the effect of cracks, it is important to reduce the autogenous and drying shrinkage. To answer these concerns, a new multi-function and multi-purpose PC has been invented, PC incorporating both shrinkage and water reducing effects in wide range of W/C; the performance of which is described in this study. The new PC can be applied to numerous scenarios ranging from high W/C to very low W/C requirements. This multipurpose makes it's a candidate for a new generation of superplasticizers.