Investigation on effect of EVA on properties of desert sand-based permeable materials

Abstract

This paper aims at studying the effect of adding ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) emulsion on the properties of desert sand-based permeable materials and explore the modification effect and mechanism of polymers. EVA emulsion can improve the fluidity of the slurry, and significantly improve the compressive strength, water permeability and freezing resistance at 10 % content. The EVA emulsion cured film is adsorbed on the surface of anhydrous cement particles. At the same time, the ester group in emulsion reacts with Ca2+ following hydrolysis, which inhibits the early hydration process of cement and reduces the early heat release. However, it has a non-significant impact on the later-age hydration and ensures the strength development of cement at the later stage. The emulsion can affect the pore structure of the material and can significantly increase the micropores content at 10 % content. The physical and chemical actions of polymer together influence the hydration process of cement and improve the bonding between desert sand and cement paste.