Title:
The Effect of the Side Chain Length of PCEs on the Hydration of Portland Cement
Author(s):
C. Sarta, F. Castiglioni, M. Gamba, E. Moretti, P. Clemente, A. Bravo, G. Ferrari
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
369
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
9-18
Keywords:
calcium binding, charge density, molecular weight, PCEs, retardation, side chain
DOI:
10.14359/51750717
Date:
5/1/2026
Abstract:
PCEs have become essential ingredients in concrete technology, because they allow the production of modern concrete, characterized by ease of placement, low water-to-cement ratio and high durability. The possibility of modifying the chemical structure of PCEs over a wide range of properties allowed the development of plenty formulations engineered for different applications (ready-mixed, precast concrete industry), types of cement and climate conditions. In PCEs’ technology, the side chain length is a fundamental parameter not only in determining the dispersibility but also the cement hydration kinetic. Longer side chains are used for PCEs with high water reduction capability and low retarding effect, while shorter chains offer more a robust behavior in different application conditions. In the present work three different PCEs were synthesized, characterized by same backbone length, same carboxylic acid to side chain ratio and different side chain length. Several measurements and tests were performed, both in cement paste and mortar. Results confirmed the importance of the side chain length of PCEs in determining the plasticizing effect while the retardation of hydration mainly depends on backbone charge density and distribution. This contributes to clarify the correlation existing among the different parameters determining the functionalities of this fundamental class of admixtures.
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