Polycarboxylate Superplasticizers Used in Concrete: A review

Abstract

Modern concrete frequently uses a variety of chemical admixtures, like setting time-retarding admixtures, viscosity-modifying admixtures (VMA), and superplasticizers (SPs). These chemical admixtures greatly impact cement components like film-forming capacity, flowability, and film drying time. Currently, the market provides a broad variety of chemically distinct polycarboxylate (PCE) products; of these IPEG and HPEG PCEs have a wide market share due to their cost-effectiveness. New PCE types such as GPEG and EPEG PCEs are currently being introduced, which will expand the family of vinyl ether (VPEG) SPs. In summary, this study examines the chemistry, functionality, the interaction between the chemical structure of PCEs and their behavior with concrete and/or cement-based materials (CBM). The performance of concrete and/or CBM is significantly influenced by the chemical structure of PCE, along with their main chain, anchoring group, side chain, molecular weight, and structure. In conclusion, more precise quantitative micro-analytical methodologies and modelling tools are required to get a comprehensive grasp of the variables influencing the microstructure of concrete and to apply PCE SPs to create more durable concrete.