Effect of silane coupling agents on the durability of polymer concrete

Over the past two decades, polymer concrete has increasingly been used for a number of applications including piping, machine bases, chemically resistant flooring, and bridge overlays. Currently, the use of polymer concrete as a wear surface for polymeric composite bridge decks is being investigated. Polymer concrete is a particulate composite comprised of mineral aggregate bound by a polymeric matrix. Such materials possess significantly higher mechanical properties than portland cement concrete. However, the mechanical characteristics and environmental durability of polymer concrete are influenced by a number of factors. Among these are the selection of aggregate and resin, surface treatment and cure conditions. The present work is mainly focused on the effects of water on polymer concrete properties and to the mechanisms by which degradation occurs. The basalt-based polymer concrete systems investigated were susceptible to attack by water. Furthermore, the results suggest that the property loss associated with water exposure was primarily a result of interfacial weakening. In an effort to improve the interfacial bond strength, the use of silane coupling agents was investigated. The results suggest that silanes may be used successfully to improve polymer concrete behavior.