Evaluation of the chemical strength of polymeric concretes in aggressive environments

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical strength of polymeric concretes. Four different concentrations of two unsaturated polyester resins (isophtalic and orthophtalic) , summing up eight chemical mortar compositions, were analyzed. Samples were submitted to alkaline and saline solutions, which are usually responsible for corrosive processes in industrial environments. Results showed that the studied mortar compositions did not suffer any physical changes on their surface nor significant mass loss. However, flexural strength decreased in samples submitted to aggressive environments. Despite this significant decrease in the flexural strength, the remaining values were much higher than those usually observed in concrete mixtures produced with Portland cement. Moreover, according to the statistical analysis, resin type and concentration, and type of solution significantly influenced the chemical strength of the studied polymeric concretes.