Synergistic effect of polymer and integral waterproofing on the strength and durability of concrete in saline conditions

Abstract

Foundations in coastal and arid areas are often built with concrete materials that are exposed to extremely salty conditions, which consequently reduce their durability as a result of chloride and sulfate penetration. The current paper examines the reinforcement of concrete mechanical and durability properties due to the synergistic use of an integral waterproofing admixture and polymer. Concrete mixture samples were prepared, consisting of ordinary concrete and polymer-modified concrete with built-in waterproofing, which differed by 0 to 2.5% in terms of cement mass. The polymer was a consistent 10% and was uniform throughout the polymer-modified concrete. All the specimens were made, cured for 28 days, and then subjected to saline groundwater for 1, 2, and 3 months. Compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and water absorption were taken as key performance measures in order to gauge the performance of the new concrete formulas. The polymer-modified concrete was highly effective, as compressive strength was enhanced by 26% and tensile strength rose by 65% compared to the control mixtures, and water absorption decreased by more than 80%. However, the intrinsic waterproofing of the polymer is a suitable and efficient approach towards improving the durability and functioning of concrete when it is placed in saline conditions.