Overview
Polycarboxylic acid (PCE) is a synthetic polymer used primarily as a superplasticizer in concrete formulations. Developed as an alternative to traditional naphthalene-based admixtures, it offers superior water reduction and workability retention. Its molecular structure allows tailored performance for specific construction needs, making it a staple in modern high-performance concrete. PCE is synthesized via free-radical polymerization of monomers like methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate. The resulting polymer’s comb-like structure disperses cement particles effectively, reducing water demand by up to 40%. This innovation has revolutionized sustainable construction by enabling low-water, high-strength concrete mixes.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Polycarboxylic acid exhibits high solubility in water due to its hydrophilic ether and carboxylate groups. Its viscosity ranges from 200–2,000 mPa·s at 20°C, depending on concentration and molecular weight. The solution pH is neutral (6–8), ensuring compatibility with most cement types. Unlike sulfonated melamine or naphthalene condensates, PCE maintains slump retention for over 2 hours without significant strength trade-offs. Its low ionic content minimizes corrosion risks in reinforced concrete. Thermal stability is moderate, with decomposition starting at ~200°C, but it should not be exposed to prolonged high temperatures during storage.
Main Applications
Over 90% of PCE is used in concrete admixtures, particularly for self-compacting concrete (SCC), precast elements, and ready-mix applications. Its ability to reduce water content while enhancing flowability makes it ideal for high-rise buildings and infrastructure projects requiring precise placement. Secondary applications include gypsum-based products and ceramic dispersants. In oilfield operations, modified PCE variants serve as fluid loss reducers. Recent R&D explores its use in 3D-printed construction materials, where controlled rheology is critical.
Safety and Storage
PCE is classified as non-hazardous under GHS, but concentrated solutions may cause mild skin or eye irritation. Use nitrile gloves and goggles when handling. Spills should be contained with absorbent materials and rinsed with water. Storage requires corrosion-resistant containers (HDPE or stainless steel) to prevent contamination. Avoid temperatures below 5°C to prevent crystallization or above 40°C to minimize viscosity changes. Shelf life is typically 12 months if unopened; agitated storage is recommended for bulk quantities.
B2B Procurement Guide
When sourcing PCE, prioritize suppliers with ISO 9001 certification for consistent quality. Key specifications to verify include solid content (40–50% standard), chloride content (<0.1%), and alkali levels. Request batch-specific test reports for fluidity (measured via Marsh cone test) and cement compatibility data. Bulk shipments (IBC tanks or tankers) offer cost savings for large-scale projects. For regional procurement in China, major production hubs include Jiangsu and Shandong provinces. Negotiate MOQs (typically 1–5 tons) and assess logistics options, as some formulations may require temperature-controlled transport.
Related Manufacturers
- 主营：染料回收、回收颜料
- 主营：回收油漆、回收树脂、回收橡胶助剂、回收油漆厂原料、回收橡胶、回收香精、回收热熔胶
- 主营：回收钛白粉、回收硫酸铜、回收氯化亚锡、回收锌粉、回收油漆、回收石蜡、回收己内酰胺、回收水银、回收丙烯酸树脂、回收氧化锌、回收溶剂、回收硫酸亚锡、回收碳酸锂、回收碳酸钾、回收氢氧化锂、回收氢氧化钠、回收氢氧化钾、回收硼酸、回收硼砂、回收煤焦油、回收烧火油、回收环氧树脂、回收过期油漆、回收白砂糖、回收柠檬酸
- 主营：回收化工原料、回收减水剂、回收化学试剂、回收食品添加剂、回收化工溶剂、回收硅油、回收聚羧酸母液
- 主营：回收化工原料、回收维生素、回收减水剂、回收日化原料、回收赤砂糖、回收含糖废水、回收化学试剂、回收二甲基硅油、回收引气剂、回收化工废溶剂、收购碘化钾、化工厂废料
- 主营：回收镍、回收pe蜡、回收石墨、回收奶粉、回收废油、回收胶粉、回收水银、回收油漆、回收白砂糖、回收硫酸铵、回收氯化石蜡、回收树脂、回收氧化锌、回收硫酸亚锡、回收硫酸铜、回收氯化亚锡、回收钛白粉、回收氯化锂、回收钴酸锂
- 主营：回收染料颜料色浆、回收各种化工助剂、回收日化原料
- 主营：回收各种化工产品
- 主营：玫瑰精、珠光粉、碳酸锂、炭黑回收、增白剂、聚酯树脂、机硅树脂、环氧树脂、库存颜料、二氧化硅、碱性染料、色淀玫瑰、荧光颜料、分散染料、薄荷脑、日化原料、涂料原料、油墨原料、聚醚MDI
- 主营：金红石钛白粉、单水氢氧化锂、碘化钾、聚羧酸、碘化钠、精碘、薄荷脑、氯化亚锡
- 主营：回收油漆、回收染料、回收树脂、回收机油、回收橡胶、回收助剂
- 主营：化工原料、过期油漆、油漆油墨、回收涂料、回收油墨、回收油漆、回收废旧油漆、回收合成导热油、上门回收蓖麻油、回收防腐油漆、回收过期油漆、回收颜料、回收日化原料、回收色浆、回收色粉、回收钛白粉、回收环氧树脂、回收防污漆、回收聚醚多元醇、回收香精、收购过期原料、醇酸树脂收购、废旧油漆原料、过期临期薄荷脑
- 主营：纤维素、异丙醇、乙二醇、回收减水剂、回收红糖、回收硅油、回收热熔胶、回收天然橡胶、回收三乙醇胺、回收羧甲基纤维素钠、回收化学试剂、抗氧剂、硝酸钾、柠檬酸、乳化剂、羟乙酯、废机油、环己烷、正己烷、硫酸铜、硫酸银、葡萄糖、二甲酯、羟丙酯、丙烯酸
- 主营：回收硅油、回收次磷酸钠、回收碳酸钾、回收减水剂、回收化学试剂、回收磷酸、回收葡萄糖、回收柠檬酸、回收溴化钾、回收草酸、回收白砂糖、回收红糖、回收麦芽糊精、回收硼酸、回收化工原料
- 主营：化工产品、稀土产品、建筑材料、再生资源回收、专用化学产品、食品添加剂