Effect of Different C3A Content on Rheological Parameters in Paste Mixtures

Abstract

C3A content of cement is of great importance in connection with the fresh and early age mechanical properties of cementitious systems. In this study, the effects of different C3A content on the static and dynamic yield stress and viscosity values of paste mixtures were examined. Consequently, the use of polycarboxylate ether-based water reducing admixture (PCE) up to a certain dosage affected adversely the rheological characteristics of the mixtures. The dispersion effect, which increased with the increment of the PCE dosage, increased the hydration rate of C3A by increment its contact with water by dispersing it. Therefore, dynamic yield stress and viscosity were adversely affected by the increment in PCE dosage in high C3A-containing mixtures, while rheological parameters improved after a certain dosage in low C3A ones.