Journal of Applied Technology

Volume 10, Number 1, Page 17–23, Mei, 2023

ISSN 1693-2536, e-ISSN 2964-3198

Foam Agent Synthesis for the Production of Foam-Based

Concrete
Izarul Machdar1,*, Abdullah2, Adisalamun1, Wahyu Rinaldi1

1
Chemical Enginering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Syiah Kuala University, Darussalam,
Banda Aceh, Indonesia
2
Civil Enginering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Syiah Kuala University, Darussalam, Banda
Aceh, Indonesia

*
Corresponding author : machdar@usk.ac.id

Abstract: Foam agents are crucial in the durability and performance of foam-based concrete. This study
provides a critical finding related to foam agent characteristics, foam decay, the effects of foam modifiers
(NaCl), and the properties of foam concrete, including shrinkage, compressive strength, and density. The
foaming agent was prepared using sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and triethanolamine (TEA) as a surface-
active agent, propylene glycol (PG) as a solvent, and NaCl as the foam modifier. The SDS:TEA:PG ratio
was 1:1:2. The foam modifier was introduced in 0.1% to 0.8% varying concentrations to assess its impact
on foam stability. The surface tension of the foam agent synthesis at a concentration of 20% was measured
to be 0.1649 N/m, comparable to the commercial one. The decay rate foam of 0.095, 0.059, 0.063, and
0.013 cm/minute for the concentrations of 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%, respectively. This suggests that
higher concentrations of the foaming agent resulted in a more stable foam structure with slower decay
rates. Moreover, the results showed that as the NaCl increased, the viscosity increased, but no effect on
foam concentration of 80%. It was also observed that the combined effect of the foam agent concentration
and NaCl concentration on viscosity was not linear. The recorded foam concrete shrinkage heights for
the 20%, 40%, and commercial foam agent concentrations were 6.45 mm (SD 1.07 mm), 5.04 mm (SD
0.62 mm), and 4.0 mm (SD 0.94 mm), respectively. Furthermore, the compressive strengths of the foam
concrete for the 20%, 40% foam agent concentration, and commercial foam were 4.41 MPa (SD 0,79
MPa), 4.20 MPa (SD 0.48 MPa), and 6.32 MPa, respectively. In conclusion, the foaming agent
formulated from the mixture of components SDS, TEA, PG, dan NaCl has demonstrated the ability to
produce foam concrete with satisfactory quality.
Keywords: foam agent synthesis, concrete foam, foam modifier, durability, compressive strength

1. Introduction
Foam concrete is a lightweight concrete, classified as either a cement paste or mortar, in which air
voids are intentionally entrapped by incorporating a suitable foaming agent. This unique composition
gives foam concrete distinct characteristics, including high flowability, low self-weight, reduced aggregate
consumption, controlled low strength, and excellent thermal insulation properties [1]. Foaming agents,
available in various types, such as synthetic surfactants [2], protein-based agents [3], or bio-based
alternatives [4], are critical players in foam concrete production. Their primary function is to generate
stable foam bubbles, introducing air voids into the cementitious matrix. An appropriate foaming agent
ensures desired foam quality and long-term stability.

Numerous researchers have conducted preliminary studies to explore the characteristics and
impacts of various foaming agents [5]−[7]. Their investigations aimed to uncover the intricacies of
foaming agent selection, dosage, and interaction with cementitious materials. Moreover, extensive
research has been conducted to investigate the influence of various factors on the strength parameters of
foamed concrete. Scholars have explored the impact of the water-cement ratio and foam volume, as
highlighted in a study by [8], recognizing their significance in determining the compressive and flexural

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 Journal of Applied Technology
Volume 10, Number 1, Page 17–23, Mei, 2023
ISSN 1693-2536, e-ISSN 2964-3198

strength of the material. Furthermore, the size of fine aggregates has been scrutinized [9], as it plays a
crucial role in influencing the mechanical properties of foamed concrete. Researchers have also delved
into the effect of different curing methods [10], understanding how proper curing techniques contribute
to optimal strength development. In addition, the addition of fibers to foamed concrete has been examined
[11], revealing their potential to enhance tensile strength and crack resistance.

Furthermore, investigations into pore size [12] have shed light on its correlation with the strength
characteristics of foamed concrete. Lastly, cement replacement with fly ash and other supplementary
materials has been explored [13], uncovering their impact on foamed concrete's strength properties and
sustainability. Through these extensive studies, a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the
strength parameters of foamed concrete has been achieved, paving the way for improved design and
application in various construction scenarios.

This study examines concrete foam characteristics, including density, viscosity, and surface
tension. Additionally, it seeks to establish the relationship between salt (NaCl) concentration and foam
properties and investigate the correlation between concrete shrinkage and foam concentration. The NaCl
was used due to its ability to enhance foam stability and viscosity. Furthermore, the study aims to assess
foam concentration's impact on foam concrete's strength.

2. Materials and Methods

Preparation of Foam Agent

The surfactant materials of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and triethanolamine (TEA) were chosen
based on their foaming properties and compatibility with the desired foam agent formulation. Solvent, 1-
tert-butoxy or propylene glycol (PG) was selected for its ability to dissolve the surfactant materials
effectively. Additionally, NaCl salt is chosen as the foam modifier to influence foam stability and other
foam characteristics. The SDS:TEA:PG ratio was 1:1:2. The foam modifier was introduced in 0.1% to
0.8% varying concentrations to assess its impact on foam stability.

Evaluation of Foam Durability

Foam durability was evaluated over a 2-hour period by examining the relationship between time
and foam shrinkage rate in various foam agent and modifiers concentrations. Throughout the experiment,
regular foam height measurements were taken at predetermined intervals. These measurements captured
the changes in foam height and allowed for calculating the foam shrinkage rate.

Evaluation of Foam Concrete Shrinkage

Variations of foam agent solutions were prepared, including a comparison with a commercially
available foam agent (FC). Foam concrete samples (15 cm x 30 cm, inside diameter and height,
respectively) were produced using these foam agent solutions, and their shrinkage behavior was tested
over a specified period. The collected data on foam concrete shrinkage from the different foam agent
variations and the commercial foam agent were analyzed and compared.

Evaluation of Foam Concrete Compressive Strength

The effects of various foam agent solutions on the compressive strength of foam concrete were
studied. Different foam agents were prepared in various concentrations. Foam concrete samples were
then produced using these foam agent solutions. The compressive strength of the foam concrete samples
(15 cm inside diameter x 30 cm height) was tested after a 7-day curing period. The obtained data on
compressive strength from the different foam agent variations were analyzed and compared.

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 Journal of Applied Technology
Volume 10, Number 1, Page 17–23, Mei, 2023
ISSN 1693-2536, e-ISSN 2964-3198

3. Results and Discussion

Foam Agent Characteristics and Durability
The foam agent concentrations used were 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% (by weight), while the
commercial foam (CF) served as a benchmark. The measured values for density, viscosity, and surface
tension were recorded, as shown in Table 1. The results indicated that increasing the concentration of the
foam agent generally led to an increase in foam density. This can be observed from the trend of the
recorded values, where the density gradually increased from 1.002 g/mL to 1.038 g/mL as the foam agent
concentration increased from 20% to 80%. The CF demonstrated a relatively higher density than the
foaming agent at all concentrations.

Table 1. Density, Viscosity, and Surface Tension of Foam.

Foaming Agent Density Surface Tension
No. Viscosity (cp)
Concentration (%) (g/mL) (N/m)
1 20 1.002 1.046 0.1649
2 40 1.030 1.740 0.1649
3 60 1.020 1.734 0.1820
4 80 1.036 1.800 0.1592
5 CF 1.038 1.962 0.1564

The foam agent exhibited a varying impact on viscosity depending on the concentration. At a
concentration of 20%, the foaming agent showed a viscosity of 1.046 cp, which was relatively lower than
the CF foam. However, as the concentration increased, the viscosity of the foaming agent also increased,
surpassing the CF foam at 40%, 60%, and 80% concentrations. This suggests that higher concentrations
of the foam agent resulted in thicker and more viscous foam.

In terms of surface tension, the foaming agent exhibited different behavior. The surface tension of
the foaming agent at a concentration of 20% was measured to be 0.1649 N/m, which was comparable to
the CF. However, at 40% concentration, the foaming agent showed an increased surface tension of 0.1820
N/m, surpassing both the CF foam and the lower concentration. Further, an increase in concentration
(60% and 80%) led to a slight decrease in surface tension, but it remained higher than the CF.

The experiment revealed that the foam agent concentration significantly affected the foam's
density, viscosity, and surface tension. Higher concentrations resulted in denser and more viscous foam,
while the impact on surface tension varied depending on the concentration. These findings provide
valuable insights into the characteristics of the foam agent and its potential applications in foam concrete
production.

Foam Decay
The relationship between foam decay for 2 hours at intervals of 10 minutes is presented in Figure
1. The results showed a clear connection between the foam decay and the concentration of the foaming
agent. As the foam agent's concentration increased, the foam decay rate decreased. This is evident from
the recorded decay rates of 0.095, 0.059, 0.063, and 0.013 cm/minute for the concentrations of 20%, 40%,
60%, and 80%, respectively. This suggests that higher concentrations of the foaming agent resulted in a
more stable foam structure with slower decay rates. The observed trend can be attributed to the higher
foam stability provided by the increased concentration of the foaming agent. The foam agent acts as a
stabilizing agent, reducing the rate of gas release from the foam structure, thereby slowing down the decay
process. These findings emphasize the importance of the foam agent concentration in determining the
stability and longevity of foam structures.

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Volume 10, Number 1, Page 17–23, Mei, 2023
ISSN 1693-2536, e-ISSN 2964-3198

Figure 1. Foam decay at various foaming agent concentrations.

Effects of Foam Modifiers (NaCl)

Figure 2 illustrates the relationship between salt concentration and viscosity for various foam agent
concentrations. The results demonstrated a clear relationship between the concentration of the foam
agent, salt concentration, and the resulting viscosity of the foam solution. As the concentration of the
foam agent increased, the viscosity of the foam solution generally increased as well. This relationship
suggests that higher concentrations of the foam agent resulted in thicker and more viscous foam solutions.
This can be observed from the trend of the recorded viscosity values for the 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%
foam agent concentrations.

The presence of salt in the foam solution also influenced the viscosity. The results showed that as
the salt concentration increased, the viscosity tended to increase, but there was no effect on foam
concentration of 80%. This suggests that the addition of salt had a significant impact on the foam solution
of 20%. Higher foam agent cocentration result in thicker and more viscous due to it increase the surface
tension of the liquid and create stronger intermolecular forces within the foam structure. This leads to a
greater ability of the foam bubbles to hold their shape and resist collapsing. Furthermore, it was observed
that the combined effect of the foam agent concentration and salt concentration on viscosity was not
linear. These findings highlight the importance of considering the interactions between the foam agent
concentration and salt's presence in determining the foam solution's viscosity.

Figure 2. Effect of foam modifier (NaCl) on viscosity.

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Volume 10, Number 1, Page 17–23, Mei, 2023
ISSN 1693-2536, e-ISSN 2964-3198

Foam Concrete Shrinkage, Compressive Strength, and Density

Figure 3 presents the relationship between foam agent concentrations (20%, 40%, and CF) and the
shrinkage height, as well as the density of the foam concrete. The results showed a clear relationship
between foam agent concentration and shrinkage height. As the foam agent concentration increased, the
shrinkage height decreased. The recorded shrinkage heights for the 20%, 40%, and CF foam agent
concentrations were 6.45 mm (SD 1.07 mm), 5.04 mm (SD 0.62 mm), and 4.0 mm (SD 0.94 mm),
respectively. This indicates that higher foam agent concentrations resulted in lower shrinkage heights,
suggesting improved stability and reduced volume change in the foam concrete.

Figure 3. Effect of foaming concentration on shrinkage height.

Figure 4. Effect of foaming concentration on compressive strength and density.

Figure 4 shows the relationship between foam agent concentration and compressive strength, as
well as concrete foam density. The recorded compressive strengths for the 20%, 40% foam agent
concentration, and CF were 4.41 MPa (SD 0,79 MPa), 4.20 MPa (SD 0.48 MPa), and 6.32 MPa,
respectively. It is evident that the commercial foam agent resulted in a significantly higher compressive
strength compared to the 20% and 40% foam agent concentrations. This suggests that the commercial
foam agent had a more pronounced effect in enhancing the compressive strength of the concrete. While
the 20% and 40% foam agent concentrations yielded slightly lower compressive strengths, it is essential
to note that the differences in strength were relatively small. This indicates that increasing the foam agent
concentration beyond 20% did not significantly improve compressive strength. In terms of density, it was
observed that the densities for the 20% and 40% foam agent concentrations were relatively similar,

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Volume 10, Number 1, Page 17–23, Mei, 2023
ISSN 1693-2536, e-ISSN 2964-3198

indicating that increasing the foam agent concentration beyond 20% did not significantly affect the density
of the foam concrete. However, the FC demonstrated a slightly lower density than the other
concentrations, indicating a more lightweight foam concrete. Theoretical equation for determining the
fresh density of foam may not be directly applicable due to potential variations in the result. Several factor
can be contribute to this scatter, including the ongoing expansion of the foam even after it has been
discharged and the loss of foam during the mixing process [1,14].

4. Conclusion
In conclusion, the characteristics of the foam agent significantly impact the durability and
performance of foam-based concrete. Foam agents with higher concentrations contribute to improved
stability and reduced foam decay over time. Additionally, foam modifiers (NaCl) can notably affect foam
properties. Adding NaCl to foam solutions can alter their viscosity, surface tension, and stability. It can
also influence the density and shrinkage of foam concrete.

Furthermore, the properties of foam concrete, including shrinkage and compressive strength, can
be influenced by the foam agent concentration. Higher concentrations of foam agents generally lead to
lower shrinkage and improved compressive strength. However, the relationship between foam agent
concentration and foam concrete properties is complex, and further research is needed to determine the
optimal concentration for specific applications.

Overall, understanding the characteristics of foam agents, the effects of foam modifiers, and their
relationship with foam concrete properties is crucial for designing and developing durable foam-based
concrete. These insights can guide the selection of appropriate foam agents, modifiers, and
concentrations, producing foam structures with improved durability, stability, and performance.

Acknowledgment
We thank Farah Dwi Vaniya, Desri Kesumaning Sari, and Mahlil for their excellent technical help .

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