Effect of superabsorbent polymers on microstructure and strength of blended cements mortars reinforced by polymeric fibre

Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) efficiently reduce total shrinkage and cracking susceptibility of fibre reinforced mortars (FRM). This paper discusses the effects SAPs on microstructure mechanical properties FRM containing fly ash (FA) ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) during a period 180 days. Three types cement including CEM I, II/B-V III/A three SAP with different chemical compositions particle gradings were studied. The argues SAP's contribution to hydration FA GGBS subsequent deposition these products fibres surface in pores below 20 nm diameter. analysis confirmed that provide additional water for (internal curing) but also required space later (additional refilling collapsed SAPs), resulting more homogenous internal microstructure. improvement is prominent finer (around 80 μm), which can facilitate strength recovery up 50%. recovering process FRM-SCM samples boosted after 2nd week, dominant III/A.