Title:
Rheology of Superabsorbent Polymer-Modified Magnesia for 3-D Printing (Prepublished)
Author(s):
Ala Eddin Douba, Jan Olek, and Kendra A. Erk
Publication:
Materials Journal
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
3-D printing; magnesia cement; rheology; superabsorbent polymers
DOI:
10.14359/51749254
Date:
10/8/2025
Abstract:
This work investigated the rheological properties of pastes made from magnesia cement modified with superabsorbent polymers (SAP) with the aim of uncovering the mechanisms governing their interactions. The findings highlighted the significant improvement in static yield stress brought about by the addition of SAP, with minimal impact on dynamic flow properties. Furthermore, the incorporation of small quantities of methylcellulose was observed to amplify SAP's absorption capacity during the initial stages of hydration. This study also revealed that SAP's absorption behavior does not impede the rate at which hydration products form. In addition, the value of the critical strain can be used as a rheological indicator of SAP’s degree of absorption. Overall, this investigation indicated that the incorporation of SAP was highly advantageous with respect to enhancing the rheological characteristics of magnesia cement, particularly with respect to facilitating its usage for 3-D printing applications.