Houston-based Lyondell Chemical Co. has announced the European launch of Ethacryl HF (high flow) dispersants, suited for use as concrete admixtures. As
CP Staff
Houston-based Lyondell Chemical Co. has announced the European launch of Ethacryl HF (high flow) dispersants, suited for use as concrete admixtures. As a water-soluble, polycarboxylate copolymer, the product can improve workability and reduce water content and segregation of concrete/cement versus traditional dispersants, product developers contend. Ethacryl HF can also reportedly improve initial and retained slump without increasing set times, and enhance pumping ability and concrete uniformity. Other benefits include higher productivity, lower costs and optimal concrete properties, such as improved finishing characteristics and increased compressive and flexural strength.
Because of their comb-branched structure, Ethacryl HF dispersants are ideal for concrete producers looking to reduce water consumption and increase workability during placement, says Lyondell’s Christopher Salus, business development and marketing manager. Through its position in propylene oxide and ethylene oxide, Lyondell produces the key raw materials found in Ethacryl. This gives Lyondell a unique position in the market, because it brings the strength of key raw material integration to the manufacturing and marketing of these dispersants. This, combined with our technology position and ability to produce new products both in Europe and the United States, allows Lyondell to meet increasingly stringent customer requirements, Salus contends.
The Ethacryl HF introduction is confined to Europe, and Lyondell officials have not indicated North American availability. The polycarboxylate chemistry at the core of Ethacryl is similar to the technology behind third-generation superplasticizers U.S. and Canadian ready mixed and precast producers have adopted for self-consolidating and other high performance concrete mixes. Data sheets can be downloaded from www.ethacryl.com.