Mechanical Properties of Unsaturated Polyester Resin (UPR)-Mortar and its Potential Application to Restore the Strength and Serviceability of Patched Reinforced Concrete Slab

Abstract

Degradation of reinforced concrete could occur in various forms including spalling of concrete cover as a result of reinforcement corrosion. The degradation would shorthen the service life of the reinforced concrete structure. Patch repair method may be employed to recover this type of degradation using a suitable patch repair material. The authors have developed a patch repair material made from unsaturated polyester resin (UPR)-mortar. In this paper, the mechanical properties of this material which includes compressive strength, elastic modulus, flexural strength and bond strength are highlighted. Comparisons are also made with the normal mortar to emphasize the superior properties of UPR-mortar. Based on these properties, the potential application of UPR-mortar for repairing damaged reinforced concrete slab is examined through finite element simulation. It is pointed out that the tensile stress intensity in the UPR-layer is reduced with a consequence of reducing a risk of cracking in the repair zone. In addition, the patching of damaged zone with UPR-mortar could minimize the deflection.