Lignosulfonate also referred to as sulfonated lignin, is a product of the wood pulping process. Initially considered as a waste material, refined lignosulfonate nowadays constitutes a viable alternative to synthetic chemicals in many applications.Among others, it is used in dispersant formulations in concrete, for rheology control of drilling fluids and coal–water slurries, and as a germicide, a flotation agent, and an emulsion stabilizer. In part because of its origin, lignosulfonate is a renewable chemical with low toxicity and good biodegradability.
Lignosulfonate Application
Construction
Sodium lignosulfonate has been used for many years in the construction industry when producing concrete and cement slurry,It helps in reinforcing mechanical strength and final resistance.
Water Reduction
Lignosulfonate has water reducing ability due to its surfactant properties. This is whereby an organic compound possesses both hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules. These features enable water reduction by releasing excess water between the particles.
At Bisley, we supply Lignosulfonate to construction companies, which prefer it due to its water reduction ability. By reducing concrete hydration, it escalates compactness and boosts its impermeability. Its simple and inexpensive water-reducing results have made it applicable in numerous domestic constructions.
Soil Stabilisation
Nowadays, engineers and agricultural experts have majored in soil stabilisation using chemicals. However, Lignosulfonate has stood out as the most effective soil stabilising chemical. Its dominance has been enriched by its ability to coalesce soil particles tightly, enhancing waterproofness.
Some Lignosulfonate tests have been conducted on silty soils, and the results showed improved wet-dry resistance. It also boosted the bonding between soil particles. Road constructors have recently maximised the use of Lignosulfonate in designing public and private roads. Its incorporation into the construction industry has resulted in reduced road construction and maintenance costs and outstanding final road results.
Ceramic Applications
Lignosulfonate possesses molecular compositions that can be altered by the addition of other chemical components. This makes it possible to enhance the mechanical green and dry strength in the production of ceramics. It is also a vital component as it reduces mudflow and improves adhesive properties. Additionally, it is used to curb shrinkage, which enhances ceramic durability.
It is also useful in the extrusion or pressing stage since it serves as a lubricant. Lignosulfonate makes the production of ceramics relatively inexpensive and long-serving.
Pellet Binding
They are incorporated into animal feeds to improve the quality of feed pellets.
They are also used in carbon black binding. They give surface interactions that spike pellet strength.
Lignosulfonates have also been utilised in coal and coke refining. In these industries, there is a lot of powder that can be expensive to bind. Lignosulfonates can be effective in the binding process as it converts the powder into appropriate handling pellet sizes. Thus, it stands out as a less expensive option in binding pellets.