Modification of waste fluorgypsum and its applications as a cement retarder

The waste fluorgypsum was modified and applied as a cement retarder. The main chemical composition and mineral structure of the waste fluorgypsum were analyzed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and eight-channel micro-calorimeter (TAM Air) were employed to analyze the changes in morphology and study the application performance of the modified fluorgypsum, respectively. Experimental results indicate that the flexural strength and compressive strength of the modified fluorgypsum are roughly equal to those of the natural gypsum. The morphology of the crystal of the fluorgypsum changes from block particle into trimetric short column. The fluorgypsum crystals stagger mutually and improve the strength of the hardened body. The modified fluorgypsum as cement retarder could delay the hydration, reduce the heat of the hydration and make the setting time, volume stability, and the SO3 content of the cement meet the national standards. The modified fluorgypsum is a good substitute for the natural gypsum.