Dispersant

A dispersant or a dispersing agent or a plasticizer or a superplasticizer is either a non-surface active polymer or a surface-active substance added to a suspension, usually a colloid, to improve the separation of particles and to prevent settling or clumping. Dispersants consist normally of one or more surfactants, but may also be gases.

Application

Automotive

Dispersing agents are added to lubricating oils used in automotive engines to prevent the accumulation of varnish like deposits on the cylinder walls and to gasoline prevent the buildup of gummy residues.

Bio-dispersing

Dispersants are used to prevent formation of biofouling or biofilms in industrial processes. It is also possible to disperse bacterial slime and increase the efficiency of biocides.

Concrete

Dispersants/plasticizer/superplasticizers are used in the concrete mix (sand, stone, cement and water) to lower the use of water and still keeping the same slump (flow) property. This makes the concrete stronger and more impervious to water penetration