Effect of Tartaric Acid on the Printable, Rheological and Mechanical Properties of 3D Printing Sulphoaluminate Cement Paste

Abstract

Rapid setting and low viscosity of sulphoaluminate cement (SAC) make it difficult to be extruded by 3D printing (3DP) technique. In this study, the effect of tartaric acid (TA) on printability, rheology and mechanical property of 3DP SAC paste is investigated. The experimental results indicate that the setting time, hydration evolution and apparent viscosity of SAC paste can be well controlled by adding a proper amount of TA to satisfy the requirements of 3DP. An excellent structure of SAC paste with the ultimate deformation rate less than 10% can be printed without compromising mechanical strength.