Slurry Surfacing using aluminum sulfate

Problem. Today, in Ukraine, a 10% solution of a water-soluble emulsifier (designed for the production of slow-setting emulsions) and portland cement is used to regulate the decomposition of slurry surfacing. However, the use of this additive negatively affects the cohesive strength of the mixture. Therefore, it is necessary to explore alternative additives that would have a lesser impact on the formation rate of the wear layer. Among the alternative additives reviewed in global practice, aluminum sulfate is the most commonly used. Goal. To design and study slurry surfacing compositions with the inclusion of aluminum sulfate as a decomposition regulator of the mixture. Methodology. Standardized Ukrainian, European and global research methods were used. Results. The article presents the results of using an aqueous aluminum sulfate solution as a decomposition regulator for slurry surfacing, compared to an amine-type emulsifier solution. The study examines the impact of the aluminum sulfate solution on the decomposition criterion and cohesive strength of the slurry surfacing, using screenings with varying methylene blue values determined by different test methods. Additionally, the research substantiates the relationship between high methylene blue values in screenings and their mineralogical composition. Originality. In Ukraine, aluminum sulfate is commonly used in construction as a coloring agent for concrete mixtures and mortars. However, its application as a decomposition regulator for slurry surfacing remains largely unstudied and uncommon. Practical value. The use of aluminum sulfate as a decomposition regulator for slurry surfacing offers both technical and economic advantages. Its required dosage in slurry surfacing does not exceed that of the emulsifier, yet its cost is significantly lower. Moreover, it reduces the time needed to achieve the required cohesive strength of the mixture compared to the emulsifier solution.