Superabsorbent Polymers In Concrete to Improve Durability
Internal curing is the practice of providing small, well-distributed reservoirs of water throughout a concrete section such that the w/cm of the mixture can be kept low, but the water can later be delivered to hydrating cement as the system dries out. Internal curing has been reported to be effective in reducing shrinkage cracking, improving potential durability of concrete mixtures, and most notably, reducing warping and associated cracking in pavements and slabs on grade. Currently, the use of light-weight fine aggregate (LWFA) is the most common practice in the United States to produce internally cured concrete. This method, however, necessitates pre-saturation of aggregate at concrete batch plants in accordance with a set timeline. This may increase costs related to stockpile management in addition to the costs and emissions associated with production and hauling the LWFA. The use of superabsorbent polymers (SAP) as a means of internal curing can address such problems, while still promoting hydration and reducing the risk of early age cracking. However, there has been relatively little work conducted in the US on these materials. The aim of the work described in this proposal is to conduct laboratory work to address some remaining questions: • How should SAP products be specified? • How much is needed? • Can SAPs be dry batched with additional water in the mixture without compromising performance? • How are mixtures affected by their use?
Language
- English
Project
- Status: Active
- Funding: $99,831.00
-
Contract Numbers:
TR-793
21-SPR1-005
-
Sponsor Organizations:
Iowa Department of Transportation
800 Lincoln Way
Ames, IA United States 50010 -
Managing Organizations:
Iowa Department of Transportation
800 Lincoln Way
Ames, IA United States 50010 -
Project Managers:
Clute, Khyle
Goetz, Vanessa
-
Performing Organizations:
Iowa Department of Transportation
800 Lincoln Way
Ames, IA United States 50010 -
Principal Investigators:
Taylor, Peter
- Start Date: 20210401
- Expected Completion Date: 20241231
- Actual Completion Date: 0
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Absorbents; Additives; Concrete; Curing agents; Durability; Polymers
- Subject Areas: Research; Transportation (General);
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01945438
- Record Type: Research project
- Source Agency: Iowa Department of Transportation
- Contract Numbers: TR-793, 21-SPR1-005
- Files: RIP, STATEDOT
- Created Date: Feb 10 2025 6:40PM