The effect of Isoprenyl Ether polymer molecular structure on cementitious composites

Abstract

In order to minimize the rapid flow loss issue from the hot weather or during lengthy periods and long-distance transport, the synthesis of the isoprenyl oxy polyethylene ether (T-PEG) was introduced. However, there were scarce amount of reported literature on the influence of main and side chain densities on the fresh and hardened properties of concrete containing T-PEG polymers. This study was conducted to investigate fresh and mechanical properties of cementitious composites containing T-PEG polymers with different main and side chain densities. These T-PEG polymers were comprised of the density ratio of side chain to main chain of 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:2, 1:2.5 and 1:3.5, respectively. The laboratory tests conducted were marsh cone funnel test, standard consistency, flow retention, flexural strength and compressive strength test. The results obtained showed that the increased density ratio of side chain to main chain of T-PEG improves the fluidity of the cement paste and the flow retention ability of the cement mortar. Consequently, the mortar with T2 polymer proved a better performance on mechanical strength tests. In conclusion, the increasing main to side chain densities ratio of T-PEG polymer imposes a significant influence on the fresh and hardened properties of the concrete material produced.