Polymer-modified pervious concrete for durable and sustainable transportation infrastructures. (15th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Giustozzi, F.
• Is Part Of: Construction & building materials. Volume 111(2016)
• Page Start: 502
• Page End: 512
• Publication Date: 2016-05-15
• Subjects: Porous pavement -- Pervious concrete -- Polymer modification -- Permeability; Building materials -- Periodicals; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2016.02.136
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0950-0618

Abstract

Highlights: Polymers affected both mechanical and volumetric performance of pervious concrete. Polymers delayed hydration reactions of cement particles. Compaction ability and mechanical performance were improved by some of the polymers. Porosity and drainability were not substantially modified by the use of polymers. Polymer form (latex or powder) showed to provide different effects on performance. Abstract: Pervious concrete is widely considered as an optimal material to manage storm waters in built environments as well as to provide several other environmental benefits. Despite the broad capabilities pervious concrete pavements have exhibited a high failure rate so far. Causes are mainly related to poor design, inadequate construction techniques including compaction, and heavy vehicular traffic. Performance of pervious concrete can be furthermore improved by modifying the cement matrix through polymer modifications, for instance. Polymers could indeed have the capability of improving mechanical performance, particularly flexural strength, without reducing drainability and void content. Four polymers have been tested in the present research and preliminary analyses on polymer-modified cement grouts and mortars were conducted during the first phase of the study; polymer-modified pervious concrete mixes were then prepared and further tested to evaluate the inclusion of polymers depending on the type and content. Results showed a delayed curing of polymer-modified mixes as well as an increased mechanical resistance and durability to raveling and freeze-thaw cycles; polyvinyl acetate polymer demonstrated to be a very good option.