INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECT OF SODIUM SULFONATE ADDITIVES ON THE STRUCTURE FORMATION OF NON-AUTOCLAVED CELLULAR CONCRETE

Abstract

This paper presents the results of research aimed at improving the production technology of non-autoclaved cellular concrete through the incorporation of a sodium sulfonate-based additive into the molding mixture. The growing interest in this type of building material is associated with the need to produce energy-efficient wall products with reduced density and adequate strength characteristics without the use of energy-intensive autoclave curing. The study examines the mechanisms of porous structure formation during the chemical gas-generation process and investigates the effect of a surfactant additive on the stability of gas bubbles formed within the mixture. It was established that the introduction of sodium sulfonate stabilizes the pore-forming process, reduces the likelihood of gas bubble coalescence, and promotes a more uniform distribution of pores throughout the material volume. Experimental investigations were conducted to evaluate the influence of different additive dosages on the average density, compressive strength, and structural homogeneity of hardened aerated concrete. The results demonstrated that the use of sodium sulfonate in optimal amounts improves the quality of interpore partitions, enhances the physical and mechanical properties of the material, and enables the production of concrete products with specified performance characteristics. The findings confirm the potential of sulfonate-containing additives for the manufacture of non-autoclaved cellular concrete, contributing to reduced material consumption and improved efficiency of building structures.