Effects of Retarder Types and Material Temperature on the Properties of Magnesium Phosphate Cement

Abstract

This study systematically investigated the effects of retarder type, dosage, and material temperature on the properties of magnesium phosphate cement (MPC). The results demonstrated that the setting time of MPC decreased with increasing material temperature but increased with the addition of retarders. At moderate material temperature, the setting time initially increased and then decreased with increasing H₃BO₃ dosage. The MgCl₂ retarder exhibited a stronger retarding effect than CaCl₂, but was still less effective than Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O. MgCl₂ was identified as the most effective single retarder. MPC incorporating Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O, MgCl₂, and Na₂HPO₄·12H₂O exhibited a denser microstructure, longer setting time and enhanced mechanical strength. The compound retarder comprising H₃BO₃ + MgCl₂ + Na₂HPO₄·12H₂O was identified as the most effective among all tested single and compound retarders. A higher rate of pH increase corresponded to a shorter initial setting time. This study developes novel retarders for MPC and provides a foundation for further research.

Keywords

compound retarders / material temperature / setting time / mechanical properties / pH value

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