Effect of PVA latex powder and PP fiber on property of self-compacting alkali-activated slag repair mortar

Abstract

Alkali-activated slag (AAS) cement shows the characteristics of fast hardening and high early strength, which is particularly suitable for repair materials. However, its high brittleness, poor toughness and poor workability hinder its application. The effects of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) latex powder and polypropylene (PP) fiber on the fluidity, mechanical properties including toughness and adhesive property of self-compacting alkali-activated slag repair mortar (SCARM) were studied. Their effects on the microstructure of SCARM were also studied. The results show that the addition of PVA is helpful to improve the workability. With the increase of PVA content, the 30 min fluidity increases greatly. The addition of PP reduces the fluidity of SCARM. The incorporation of PVA and PP can improve the mechanical property, toughness and adhesive property, especially when mixed together. PVA increases the compactness of SCARM. In addition, it also enhances the interface combination of PP and SCARM. The addition of PVA does not change the hydration products of AAS cement, but slightly increases the hydration degree.