Workability, Microstructure, Strength and Durability of Cement Mortar with Eco-Efficient Corrosion Inhibitor: Maize Gluten Meal Extract

Maize gluten meal extract (MGME) has been validated as an innovative and ecoefficient corrosion inhibitor for reinforced concrete. To facilitate its practical application as a concrete admixture, this study systematically investigates the effects of MGME on the workability, microstructure, mechanical strength, and durability of cement mortar. Experimental results show that MGME delays cement hydration, prolongs the setting time of cement paste and reduces mortar fluidity. With increasing MGME content, both flexural and compressive strengths exhibit gradual reductions, while mortar permeability increases. The performance deterioration mechanism is attributed to the reduced degree of hydration in MGME-incorporated concrete. Furthermore, when MGME is combined with the mineral admixture silica fume and the accelerator triethanolamine, the workability and durability of mortar can be synergistically optimized to meet technical requirements for field applications.