Effects of polyester fibers and gamma irradiation on mechanical properties of polymer concrete containing CaCO3 and silica sand

Abstract

Abstract. While mineral concretes belong to the oldest composites used by mankind, in an increasing number of applications their compression strength σc and compressive strain at yield point εY are insufficient. Better results can be achieved with polymer concretes (PCs). We use a polymer concrete (PC): an unsaturated polyester resin as the matrix, CaCO3 and silica sand. Moreover, we have applied two further methods to improve its mechanical properties: reinforcement with polyester fibers and gamma irradiation with a 60 Co source. A non-irradiated PC with 5 wt% CaCO3 has σc = 74 MPa, an irradiated sample with optimized CaCO3 contents 122 MPa. Scanning electron micrographs show that irradiation increases the interface areas between the fibers and the matrix. Improvements from 47 to 176% in εY values are achieved with respect to the conventional PC without fibers, non-irradiated and containing only one mineral component.

Polypropylene Fibers as Reinforcements of Polyester-Based Composites

“…When comparing the present values with other PCs, we can see similar results. The values of the present communication are from 36 to 51 MPa; similar results were obtained as PC with silica sand (49 MPa) [17], but lower than for PC with CaCO 3 (86 MPa) [18], or with silica sand + CaCO 3 (106 MPa) [19].…”

“…In the case of irradiated PCs, there are significant differences. The present values were from 40 to 70 MPa and lower than for PC with silica sand (62-86 MPa) [17], with silica sand + CaCO 3 (104-112 MPa), [19] or with CaCO 3 (126-135 MPa) [18].…”

“…Along these lines, the ionizing energy generates more contact points and in consequence larger contact areas between the components: fibers, polyester resin, and marble particles [19,22]. In turn, an increased number of contact points in the concrete will resist larger loads oriented at various angles relative to the longitudinal axes of the fibers.…”

Bond strength of polymer lightweight aggregate concrete

“…Polymer concrete (PC) materials have become a viable choice for the civil construction sector in developed countries, particularly in applications such as making reinforced slabs, overlays for highway pavements and bridge decks, or pipe coatings . PCs are also used in repairing deteriorated mineral concretes (Portland cement concrete) in situations when high strength, fast cure and durability are required . PCs are composites in which the aggregates are bound together in a polymer matrix .…”

Comparison of Cement-Based and Polymer-Based Concrete Pipes for Analysis of Cost Assessment

“…Concretes are the most widely used construction materials in the world; a large variety of concretes are based on a variety of cements [1]. Low costs, ease of application, and high compressive strength are the main factors to be considered for a given application.…”