Priya, Viswanath; Dr. Eby Thomas, Thachil(Cochin University of Science and Technology, September , 2007)
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Abstract:
Research in the field of polymer modified cement has been carried out for
the last 70 years or more. Polymers are mostly used to enhance durability and
sustainability of cement concrete and in combination with classical construction
materials a synergistic effect is obtained. In this work different polymers were
added to Portland cement in various proportions and the mechanical and
chemical resistance properties of the resultant composites when exposed to
chemical environments were studied. Microstructural studies were also carried
out to investigate the morphology of the composite and analyse the nature of
interactions taking place between the cement and polymer phases. Though most
polymers did not improve the compressive strength of the cement paste, it was
found that they enhanced the resistance of the virgin cement paste to external
chemical environments. The polymers seal the pores in the cement matrix and
bridge the microcracks within the composite. Some of the polymers underwent
chemical interactions with the cement paste thereby interfering in the hydration
of cement. Polymers also decreased the leachability of water soluble components
of virgin cement resulting in composites having improved durability. An attempt
to correlate the structure of the polymers with the properties of the resultant
composites is also presented.
Description:
Department of
Polymer Science and Rubber Technology, Cochin University of
Science and Technology