Polycarboxylate additive for high‐alumina cement

Abstract

This study investigates the compatibility and efficiency of polycarboxylate superplasticizers in special calcium aluminate cement intended for refractory dry concrete mixes. The research focuses on the development of a domestic polycarboxylate additive (RSP) and its comparative evaluation against the imported commercial additive FS‐20. Experimental cement with high alumina content was produced and tested for normal consistency, setting time, compressive strength, and phase composition of hydration products. The results demonstrated that the RSP additive effectively improves the physical and mechanical properties of cement stone while providing more stable and predictable behavior compared to FS‐20. The optimal dosage of the RSP additive was determined to be 0.03 wt.%, resulting in a 12% increase in compressive strength after 28 days of curing. X‐ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation of ettringite and cancrinite‐like hydration products contributing to enhanced structure formation and early strength development. The developed RSP additive is recommended for refractory dry concrete mixes used in thermal unit linings.