The effects of different polymer materials on concrete properties containing superabsorbent polymers (SAP)-experimental study

Abstract

The use of admixtures in concrete production has become more common in the last decades due to the promising development in concrete technology. Each one of these admixtures can be used to enhance one or more of concrete properties in the fresh, hardened or both concrete conditions. Superabsorbent Polymers (SAP) is one of the polymer admixtures that is recently used for internal curing by controlling and absorbing water within concrete. This could provide several benefits, most important being, durability of concrete. The aim of this study is to experimentally investigate the effect of different polymeric materials represented by Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) and Polypropylene Fibers (PF) on the mechanical properties of concrete containing Superabsorbent Polymers (SAP). The results of this study revealed the fact that using SAP in concrete mixes improves durability. Despite this, a notable reduction in compressive strength can be observed. The use of both SAP and PF had an undesirable influence on the strength and workability of concrete. Using SBR in concrete mixes containing SAP assisted in recuperating the hardened splitting tensile strength of concrete.