Estimating the swelling ratio of superabsorbent polymers in cement-based materials

Title: Estimating the swelling ratio of superabsorbent polymers in cement-based materials
Author(s): Hai Xiang Dennis Lee, Hong Seong Wong, Nick Buenfeld
Paper category : conference
Book title: International RILEM Conference on Use of Superabsorbent Polymers and Other New Additives in Concrete
Editor(s): O.M. Jensen, M.T. Hasholt and S. Laustsen
Print-ISBN: 978-2-35158-104-9
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-105-6
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2010
Pages: 163 - 170
Total Pages: 8
Nb references: 5
Language: English

Abstract: The swelling ratio of superabsorbent polymer (SAP) in cement paste is a key parameter in the use of SAP in concrete. However, the actual swelling of SAP when cast in concrete may be significantly different from the free swelling measured in a beaker of simulated pore solution. In this study, we present and compare three methods for estimating the swelling ratio of SAP in concrete. Two of the methods are based on measuring the volume fraction of voids in the hardened cement paste caused by the SAP, using a) point-count analysis on backscattered electron (BSE) micrographs of polished specimens and b) mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). The third method estimates swelling ratio from the additional batch water required to produce a mix with similar consistence to a control mix that contains no SAP. The assumptions, advantages and the limitations of each method are discussed.

Online publication: 2010-10-04
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00