Effect of Potassium Oxalate as Admixture on Oxychloride Cement
Author : Dr. Vijay Singh Yadav and Devdutt Arya
Abstract :
Sorel S.T., a French Scientist discovered a non-calcareous Magnesia cement by treated magnesia with aqueous solution of halides and sulphate salts in 1867 which showed cementing characteristics and was even superior than calcareous Portland cement. It is prepared by the combination of magnesium chloride solution with magnesium oxide. Inert filler dolomite is also added in the matrix to absorb the excess heat evolved during the exothermic formation of the cement, which reduces thermal shocks. Additives may alter the properties of the cement. Mixing of Potassium oxalate in Magnesium oxychloride cement (Sorel’s cement) as an additive shows very encouraging results. Remarkable increase in strength and watertightness of the cement is noticed with increasing quantities of the additive along with moderation in its setting. Weathering effects also reveal favourable findings. No significant volume changes are noticed on mixing the additive in the matrix.
The effect of admixing of potassium oxalate on oxychloride cement in the matrix has been investigated. It is shown that potassium oxalate decrease the setting process of the cement and improves compressive strength.
Keywords :
Setting periods, weathering effects, moisture ingress, compressive strength, linear changes
