Which grade for which step?
Each row lists the first grade we suggest for a trial, the values that matter on its technical data sheet, and an alternative.
| Process step | What the additive does | First choice | Key TDS values | Alternative |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal-range water reducer | Disperses cement and reduces mixing water | Sodium lignosulfonate construction grade | Water reducing capacity 8% min; pH 8.0–10.5; dry matter 95% min; sulphate 2% max | Calcium lignosulfonate construction grade (pH 4–6) |
| High-range water reducer (SNF) | Strong dispersion for high-strength or flowing concrete | SNF 5% sodium sulfate grade | Cement paste fluidity ≥ 220 mm; Na₂SO₄ below 5%; chloride below 0.4%; solids ≥ 91% | SNF 18% or SNF 20% (fluidity ≥ 210 / ≥ 200 mm) |
| High-range water reducer (PCE) | Very high water reduction at low dosage | PCE powder | Solid content 98 ± 0.5%; Na₂SO₄ 3.0% max; chloride ion 0.1% max; pH 7–10 | Blend with lignosulfonate or gluconate for slump retention, by trial |
| Set retarding | Extends setting time in hot weather or long transport | Sodium gluconate, construction grade | Purity ≥ 98%; reducing substances ≤ 0.5%; chloride ≤ 0.07% | Sodium lignosulfonate retarder powder |
| Gypsum board and plaster | Disperses gypsum slurry and reduces water | Sodium lignosulfonate plasterboard grade | Water reducing capacity 8% min; pH 7.0–9.5; dry matter 95% min | SNF where higher fluidity is needed |
Values are from the current TDS of each grade. Batch results are stated on the COA supplied with each shipment.
How to choose between grades
Lignosulfonate, SNF or PCE?
Lignosulfonate grades are specified at 8% min water reducing capacity and are the economical base of many admixtures. SNF is specified by cement paste fluidity (≥ 200–220 mm). PCE is supplied as a 98% solids powder for the highest water reduction. Choose by the concrete class and price target, then confirm in mortar or concrete trials.
Which SNF grade?
The three SNF grades differ mainly in sodium sulfate: below 5%, below 18% and below 20%. Lower sulfate gives slightly higher fluidity on the TDS (≥ 220 mm against ≥ 210 and ≥ 200 mm) and is preferred where sulfate is limited.
Chloride limits
Many concrete standards limit chloride. The TDS limits are: SNF 5% grade below 0.4%, SNF 18% and 20% below 0.5%, PCE powder 0.1% max, sodium gluconate ≤ 0.07%.
What to send us for a grade recommendation
- Product: ready-mix, precast, dry-mix mortar, gypsum board or admixture blending
- Target water reduction, slump retention and setting time
- Cement type and local standard (for example ASTM C494 or EN 934-2)
- Sulfate and chloride limits
- Current admixture system, if any
- Monthly volume and packing
Related application guides
Frequently asked questions
Is lignosulfonate a superplasticizer?
No. Lignosulfonate is a normal-range water reducer (water reducing capacity 8% min on our construction grades). SNF and PCE are the high-range superplasticizers.
Can lignosulfonate be blended with PCE?
Yes, admixture producers often blend them. Check compatibility and the final setting time in trials with your cement.
Which grade has the lowest sulfate?
Among the high-range products, PCE powder (Na₂SO₄ 3.0% max) and SNF 5% grade (below 5%). Lignosulfonate construction grades are held to sulphate 2% max.
What documents come with an order?
The current TDS and SDS for the grade, and a COA for each shipment.
Ask for TDS, SDS and a grade recommendation
Send your process details and we will reply with the grades to trial and their documents.
Last reviewed 27 October 2026. Specifications from Green Agrochem technical data sheets.