Comprehensive investigation of the mechanical performance and evaluate the environmental impact of epoxy and polyester polymer concrete

Abstract

This research aims to investigate and compare the mechanical properties of polymer concrete (PC) with ordinary concrete (OC). The study specifically focuses on PC made with epoxy and polyester resins, aiming to understand how these materials perform in terms of their mechanical strength and behaviour. The optimal ratio of matrix to aggregate was determined by considering the even distribution of aggregate particles within the polymer matrix throughout the specimens which was (300 g Resin: 500 g Filler: 500 g Aggregate). The mechanical properties of both polymer concrete (PC) and ordinary concrete (OC) were thoroughly examined through a series of tests. These tests specifically focused on evaluating the compressive, tensile, and flexural strength of each material. Additionally, the impact of the post-curing process on the mechanical performance of polymer concrete specimens was assessed and reported. The study also analyzed the bond strength between polymer concrete and regular concrete. It further explored the environmental impact of polymer concrete. Epoxy polymer concrete significantly surpasses ordinary concrete, with flexural strength increasing by 357.14 %, tensile strength by 272.77 %, and compressive strength by 111.2 %. Similarly, polyester polymer concrete shows even greater enhancements, with increases of 367.66 % in flexural strength, 300.49 % in tensile strength, and 234.08 % in compressive strength. The results provide insights into the potential advantages of polymer concrete, particularly in terms of strength and environmental resilience compared to conventional concrete.