Effect of temperature on flow properties of superplasticized cement paste

The effects of the ambient temperature over a range of 5 to 40°C (41 to 104°F) on the flow behavior of cement pastes with superplasticizers of different families were investigated. Tests with the Marsh cone and mini-slump showed that the flow behavior in all superplasticized pastes is influenced by the temperature and that the saturation dosage of superplasticizer increases with an increase in temperature, with the polycarboxylate-based superplasticizer giving the least variation. It was also observed that the loss in fluidity of the cement paste generally increases with an increase in the ambient temperature. Vicat penetration tests showed that water demand of cement increases significantly as the temperature increases from 5 to 40°C (41 to 104°F), and the change in water demand varies with the type and dosage of superplasticizer. It was also seen that an increase in temperature shortens the setting time in all of the superplasticized cement pastes. © Copyright 2014, American Concrete Institute. All rights reserved.