Molecular Structure and Dispersion-Adsorption Mechanisms of Comb-Type Superplasticizers Used in Japan

Abstract

This paper summarizes the relation between the molecular structure and the dispersion-adsorption mechanisms of 3 types of comb-type superplasticizers used in Japan. The action mechanisms of comb-type superplasticizers and the compatibility of cements and superplasticizers are influenced by the molecular structure of polymers such as copolymer components and the grafted chain length of poly (ethylene-oxide) (PEO). Many reports regarding concrete research have investigated the influence of comb-type superplasticizers on the fluidity of concrete and the production of self- compacting concrete. However, many have not considered the effect of the molecular structures of comb-type superplasticizers. This paper should be useful for engineers and researches studying the action of comb-type superplasticizers in the production of concrete with comb-type superplasticizers, and for understanding any new proper- ties of such concrete.