Mechanisms and effects of additives from the dihydroxy-compound class on Portland cement grinding

Abstract

The present paper investigates the action and effects of wet surface active additives from the dihydroxy-compound class (ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and polypropylene glycol) on Portland cement grinding, starting from the present knowledge of surface chemistry, with application to the solids and particularly the size reduction process. The investigations were performed using the comparative kinetic measurements of the size reduction process, aiming at the evolution in time of the specific surface of the solid; the grinding aptitude measurements, considered as specific power consumption, under comparable conditions; size distribution and flow capacity determinations of the ground cements. Within the homologous series of surfactants, the regularity of the additive’s effect on the process, which is dependent on the composition of the additives, is noted. The action mechanisms of the additives are discussed. The results obtained have obvious useful implications.