Determination of Compatible Plasticizer to Calcined Marl Blended Cement

Compatibility research between calcined marl (CM) blended cement and three plasticizers with different origins, such as naphthalene sulphonate–formaldehyde (NSF), vinyl copolymer (VCP), and polycarboxylate ether (PCE), was performed. The effects of considered plasticizers on the workabilities and strengths of mortars containing calcined marl blended cements were investigated. Calcined marl needs such research due to it is relatively novel compared to other supplementary cementitious materials available on the market. The blended cements in the study were obtained by partial replacement (0%, 10%, 30% and 50%) of calcined marl to clinker. Plasticizers used in the test mixtures were added in ratios such as 0.8% (low), 1.2% (medium), and 1.5% (high) to the mixing water. Density, slump-spread, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), and strength on mortar samples were determined. According to the parameters examined in the study, the compressive strengths of mortars containing calcined marl blended cement improved up to a 30% replacement ratio. And, the optimum compatibility between plasticizers and blended cements with calcined marl was determined as polycarboxylate ether (PCE) plasticizer with up to 1.2% usage ratio.