Enhancing rheological properties of slow releasing energy material (SREMA) for rock fragmentation under submerged conditions

Soundless cracking demolition agents (SCDAs) are a promising technology for rock fracturing in underground mineral recovery applications. In this study, a SCDA was modified to slow releasing energy material (SREMA) by incorporating diutan gum (DG) and a polycarboxylate ether superplasticizer (PCE) to acquire greater water resistance and fluidity for use in underground mineral extraction applications under submerged conditions. Additionally, SREMA can be utilized in underwater concrete demolition applications, and urban demolition works. Results indicate that the addition of DG increases washout resistance and decreases fluidity due to free water retention caused by polymer interactions with water, while PCE compensates for the fluidity loss. Results of yield stress and plastic viscosity suggest that the competitive adsorption of DG and PCE onto SREMA particles occurs in the SREMA system. In addition, SREMA exhibits shear-thinning behaviour due to DG polymer alignment in the direction of flow at high shear rates. The addition of both DG and PCE allows SREMA to be a highly fluid yet cohesive compound while maintaining adequate expansive pressure.