Cellulose Ethers & Retarders: The Acceleration Trap
Cellulose ethers retain water and build viscosity. Retarders extend open time. They seem like perfect partners. Yet in practice, the opposite often happens: instead of delaying set, the mix accelerates it. Behind this love-hate relationship lie three competing mechanisms. Understanding them turns a trap into a tool. How Retarders Work: A Fragile Shield Retarders like
