The Innovative Performance of Polymer Modified Cement Systems for Use in Infrastructure Applications

Abstract

This paper discusses the innovative performance of polymer modified cement mortar in comparison with conventional cement mortar particularly when exposed to severe environmental conditions. The effect of cyclic exposure to air and salt water environment increases deterioration process resulting in a high cost of maintenance and repair. The use of ordinary Portland cement system alone in severe environmental condition may not be effective, and cannot provide long term solutions because the problems of concrete deterioration will exist after a shorter period of time. Hence, there is the need to consider alternative modifications, and the polymer modified cement system can offer not only enhanced engineering properties but also high durability performance. The research have shows that, the polymer modified cement mortars have been found to improve not only the flexural strength of the mortar matrix, but also enhance the durability characteristics of the material by reducing the water absorption, shrinkage and expansion, modulus of elasticity and chloride permeability