Development of Polymer Concrete with Non-Standardised Fillers for Innovative Building Materials

Abstract

The use of polymer concrete in building construction is a relatively new application. A building block system (Modular Assembly System: MAS-System) and the mobile fabrication technology for the reversible construction of buildings with regionally available aggregates, were developed in a project of applied research. The aspects of the successful material development are described, especially with regard to the characterisation of both the binders and the polymer concretes, considering strength and durability. The polymer concrete consists approximately of 90 % fillers, 10 % polymer binder and additives. The investigation of the binder-system included the determination of gel time and temperature development, shrinkage, wetting of formwork materials and immersion tests with marine water. The aim was an adaptation and optimisation of the binder system. The characterisation of mechanical properties of the polymer concrete was realised by determining its strength in a temperature range between - 40 °C and 60 °C. Compression tests on wall segments were also realised. Ageing is an important aspect of the durability of polymer bonded materials. Special tests were used for an accelerated ageing, including impacts of temperature change, cold rain water and natural radiation.