Nano-Engineered Polyurethane Resin-Modified Concrete

NUTC R345 Disclaimer The contents of this report reflect the views of the author(s), who are responsible for the facts and the accuracy of information presented herein. This document is disseminated under the sponsorship of The goal of the proposed work is to investigate the application of nano-engineered polyurethane (NEPU) emulsions for latex modified concrete (LMC). NEPU emulsions are non-toxic, environment friendly, durable over a wide temperature range, provide better adhesion, high strength, less cracking, and compatible with all mortar types. One of the weak links in a cement-aggregate composite material is the bond between the matrix and the aggregates. To improve the performance of the alternative cement binder (ACB), the research team intends to develop a NEPU resin to act as an intermediary between the aggregates and the ACB matrix. The NEPU will be used to precoat the aggregates prior to their placement within the ACB matrix. When combined with the ACB and water, the unhydrated ACB particles embedded within the NEPU-coated aggregates will react with the surrounding matrix during hydration, providing an enhanced interfacial zone and corresponding improvement in the material properties of the hardened material. In the proposed work, the used of bio-based NEPU emulsion for LMC application will also be investigated. Project Summary: The goal of the proposed work is to investigate the application of nano-engineered polyurethane (NEPU) emulsions for latex modified concrete (LMC). NEPU emulsions are non-toxic, environment friendly, durable over a wide temperature range, provide better adhesion, high strength, less cracking, and compatible with all mortar types. One of the weak links in a cement-aggregate composite material is the bond between the matrix and the aggregates. To improve the performance of the alternative cement binder (ACB), the research team intends to develop a NEPU resin to act as an intermediary between the aggregates and the ACB matrix. The NEPU will be used to precoat the aggregates prior to their placement within the ACB matrix. When combined with the ACB and water, the unhydrated ACB particles embedded within the NEPU-coated aggregates will react with the surrounding matrix during hydration, providing an enhanced interfacial zone and corresponding improvement in the material properties of the hardened material. In the proposed work, the used of bio-based NEPU emulsion for LMC application will also be investigated. Summary of Results: To improve the strength of concrete, the research team investigated the effects of introducing polyurethane (PU) and poly (vinyl alcohol …