Polymers in concrete

This broad-based, introductory reference provides excellent discussions regarding the hydration of Portland cement, durability problems in concrete, mechanisms of concrete deterioration, and interaction of polymers in concrete. It also covers properties of concrete with added polymers and practical applications of polymers in concrete. The historic background of polymers in building materials is examined, and a comprehensive comparison of natural vs. synthetic polymers is provided and conveniently summarized in a tabular format.

Originally published 1994.

1. INTRODUCTION -- 2. NATURAL AND SYNTHETIC POLYMERS -- 2.1 Natural Polymers -- 2.1.1 The Oldest Natural Polymer, Bitumen -- 2.1.2 Use of Asphalt as an Impregnation Material -- 2.1.3 Materials Used in the Great Wall of China -- 2.1.4 Materials Used in India -- 2.1.5 Materials Used in Other Places -- 2.2 Synthetic Polymers -- 2.2.1 Soil Stabilization with Synthetic Polymers -- 2.2.2 Early Use of Synthetic Polymers in Concrete -- 2.2.3 Thermoplastics, Thermosets, and Elastomers -- 2.2.4 Water-Soluble Polymers -- 2.3 Concluding Remarks -- 3. DURABILITY PROBLEMS IN CONCRETE -- 3.1 Chemical Additives -- 3.2 Carbonation -- 3.3 Industrial Gases -- 3.4 Alkali-Aggregate Reaction -- 3.5 Water as an Agent of Deterioration -- 3.6 Need for Long-Term Research -- 3.7 Choice of Building Site -- 3.8 Errors in Design and Poor Workmanship -- 3.9 Some Cases -- 3.9.1 Bridges -- 3.9.2 Concrete Balconies -- 3.10 Reinforced Concrete Chimneys -- 3.11 Poor-Quality Aggregates -- 3.12 Corrosion of Steel Reinforcement -- 3.13 Freeze-Thaw Resistance -- 3.14 Concluding Remarks -- 4. MECHANISMS OF CONCRETE DETERIORATION -- 4.1 Carbonation of Concrete -- 4.1.1 Chemical Reaction -- 4.1.2 pH Profile -- 4.1.3 Shrink…