Title:
Compatibility of Ascophyllum nodosum-based VMA with HRWRs in cement pastes
Author(s):
Yousra Boutouam, Mahmoud Hayek, Kamal Bouarab, Ammar Yahia
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
369
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
75-90
Keywords:
Alginate, Ascophyllum nodosum, Cement-based materials, High-range water-reducers, Hydration kinetics, Polycarboxylate ether, Polynaphthalene sulfonate, Rheology, Viscosity-modifying admixtures.
DOI:
10.14359/51750723
Date:
5/1/2026
Abstract:
The use of viscosity-modifying admixtures (VMAs) is essential to ensuring cohesion and stability in cementitious systems, yet most synthetic options remain costly and unsustainable. This study investigates Ascophyllum nodosum (AN), a brown seaweed rich in alginates (ALG), as a natural, low-cost alternative. The seaweed powder was pre-dispersed in heated water (40 °C) to promote alginate release and tested both alone and in combination with two high-range water-reducers (HRWRs), polycarboxylate ether (PCE) and polynaphthalene sulfonate (PNS), using purified alginate as a reference. Cement hydration, rheology, mini-slump flow, and compressive strength were assessed. Results showed that AN (1%) and ALG (0.125%) produced comparable effects on plastic viscosity and yield stress, despite the much lower dosage of ALG. ALG exhibited greater compatibility with PNS in terms of viscosity, yield stress, and workability retention, whereas AN exhibited strong compatibility with both HRWRs. Regarding structural build-up, ALG improved rigidity more effectively with PCE, while AN enhanced rigidity with both HRWRs. Hydration kinetics and strength development revealed antagonistic interaction with PCE, particularly for AN, but beneficial synergy with PNS, which mitigated retardation and enhanced compressive strength. Overall, combined with PNS, AN offers reliable compatibility, rheological stability, controlled hydration, and superior performance in eco-efficient cementitious systems.
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