The original introduction of superplasticizers into concrete was accidental. Carbon black had been added to concrete change the color of the center line of three-lane highway. In doing so, the concrete had poor workability, and a dispersant was introduced to counter the effect of the carbon black. The resulting hardened concrete showed properties that indicated that the cement had been positively affected by the dispersant;2 the workers probably had added less water because the enhanced dispersion, and thus higher strength was obtained in the hardened material. It is now common practice to use these additives to improve the flowability and extend the working time of fresh concrete. 3, 4 The use of the first generation superplasticizers−for example, sulfonated naphthalene formaldehyde (SNF) and modified lignosulfonates (LSs)−resulted in significant improvements in the properties of fresh concrete, and they are still widely used. However, increasing demands for better flowability, extended working time, and a reduction in concrete porosity have created a need for superplasticizers with improved performance.