Evaluation of Lignosulfonate Based Retarders for Thickening Time as a Function of Dosage and Temperature

The retardation of class H Portland cement using lignosulfonates was investigated in the temperature range between 54°C and 153°C. Lignosulfonates with varying extent of modification was used in the study, and the optimum retarder dosage and temperature range to achieve desired thickening time was identified for different lignosulfonate types (non-modified, modified and highly modified). In general, a linear thickening response was observed at low retarder dosage, while a near exponential increase in thickening time response was observed at higher dosages. Defining the retarder dosage temperature relationship is essential for proper cement slurry design for securing desired placement of cement slurry. A significant finding is that the thickening time responses trend from near linear at low dosages, transitioning to near exponential at higher dosages. The observed results varied depending on the extent of modification performed on the lignosulfonate retarder. Pure lignosulfonate retarders produce optimal dosage response from 54°C to 97°C. Modified retarders work best in the range of 97°C to 118°C. While highly modified retarders perform best in the range of 118°C to 153°C. Defining the retarder dosage temperature relationship is essential for proper cement slurry design for securing desired placement of cement slurry.