retardantes

Retardantes, or retardants, are substances designed to slow down or regulate the progress of a process or reaction. They are used across industries to control rates of chemical reactions, curing or drying times, and the speed of flame spread, among other effects.

In chemistry and polymer science, inhibitors and retardants delay polymerization or cross-linking, helping to prevent premature curing and to manage heat generation during processing. Common examples include phenolic inhibitors such as hydroquinone and p-methoxyphenol.

In civil and construction materials, cement and concrete retarders slow hydration, extending workability and setting times to accommodate production schedules and placement conditions. Typical retarders include lignosulfonates and certain organic acids and sugars.

In coatings and paints, retarders slow drying to improve leveling and surface finish. In fire safety, flame retardants reduce flammability by interfering with heat release, promoting char formation, or diluting flammable gases. They include phosphorus- and halogen-based compounds, inorganic hydroxides, and mineral-based systems.

Environmental and health considerations vary by type; some retardants can be toxic or persistent in the environment and require careful handling, compliance with regulations, and proper disposal. See also reaction inhibitors, flame retardants, and concrete admixtures for related topics.