Mechanical property enhancement, durability improvement and micro mechanism of all-bamboo aggregate concrete by ACQ-polyacrylate modification

Abstract

With the growing demand for sustainable and low-carbon construction materials, all-bamboo aggregate concrete (BAC) has emerged as a promising alternative due to its eco-friendly and renewable properties. This study aimed to enhance BAC performance through the modification of bamboo aggregates. Among seven evaluated methods, the ACQ-polyacrylate (AP) method emerged as the most effective, achieving a 28-day compressive strength of 10.9 MPa. The AP-modified BAC exhibited a 63.2 % reduction in water absorption and a 49.1 % decrease in radial/chordal shrinkage, demonstrating significant improvement in volumetric stability. Durability predictive models indicated that AP-treated BAC retained 92.7 % of its strength after 3,925 days under natural conditions, confirming its long-term stability for engineering applications. Mechanistic analysis revealed that ACQ provides long-term antimicrobial protection, while polyacrylate forms a hydrophobic esterified layer, sealing micropores and enhancing interfacial bonding with cement. This study not only proposes an economical and effective modification method but also provides a scientific foundation for the broader application of BAC in sustainable construction, particularly in low-rise residential buildings, pavements, partition walls, and other non-structural or semi-structural engineering projects.