Title: Continuity threshold of the polymer phase in polymer-cement composites

Author(s): P. Łukowski

Publication: KILW

Volume: 54

Issue: 3

Appears on pages(s): 559-571

Keywords: cement,polymer

DOI:

Date: 7/1/2008

Abstract:
Polymer-cement composites (PCC) are quick developing and largely used group of the building materials. The problem of the quantitative definition of continuity threshold of the polymer phase in the composite is one of the problems involved with PCC. The subject of the paper is verification and justification of the continuity threshold of the polymer phase in polymer-cement composites. Analysis of experimental data concerning changes of various PCC properties along with content of polymer, as well as SEM photographs shows that the threshold can be found at the level close to 5% of polymer w/w cement content. Theoretical calculations have been carried out using sterical considerations and percolation theory. The results obtained have confirmed the possibility of the threshold value being equal to 6% of polymer. Good consistence between theoretical and experimental values is confirmation of the models used. Performed computer simulations point also to the geometrical aspects as more significant for polymer film creation than the chemical nature of the polymer. In spite of a number of limitations, the proposed course of consideration is promising way to justify the continuity threshold of the polymer phase in the polymer-cement composites. Application of the percolation theory seems to be effective method for analysis of the microstructure of the building composites.