A copolymer comprising of 2-acrylamido-2-methyl propane sulfonic acid (AMPS (R)) and itaconic acid (molar ratio 1 : 0.32) was synthesized by aqueous free radical polymerization and probed as high temperature retarder for oil well cement. Characteristic properties of the copolymer including molar masses (Mw and Mn), polydispersity index and anionic charge amount were determined. The copolymer possesses a Mw of similar to 2 x 105 g/mol and is highly anionic. HT/HP consistometer tests confirmed effectiveness of the retarder at temperatures up to 200 degrees C. The working mechanism of NaAMPS (R)-co-itaconic acid was found to rely exclusively on its huge calcium binding capacity (5 g calcium/g copolymer). It reduces the amount of freely dissolved, nonbound calcium ions present in cement pore solution and thus hinders the growth of cement hydrates because of lack of calcium. The value for the calcium binding capability is 46 times higher than the stoichiometric amount per ?COO- functionality. Consequently, calcium also coordinates to other donor atoms present in the retarder. NaAMPS (R)-co-itaconic acid also adsorbs onto cement, as was evidenced by TOC analysis of cement filtrates, zeta potential measurement and decreased rheology of cement pastes. However, adsorption plays no role in the retarding mechanism of this copolymer. Combination of NaAMPS (R)-co-itaconic acid retarder with a common CaAMPS (R)-co-NNDMA fluid loss additive (FLA) revealed that competitive adsorption on cement between these two admixtures occurs. The retarder fills interstitial adsorption sites on cement located between those occupied by the larger FLA molecules. In consequence, fewer amounts of CaAMPS (R)-co-NNDMA can adsorb and its effectiveness is reduced. (c) 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011