The influence of superabsorbent polymers on strength and durability properties of blended cement mortars

The effect of different quantities of admixed superabsorbent polymers (SAP) on durability and strength properties of normal strength mortars containing various binary cement blends was investigated. Addition of SAP did not significantly affect compressive strength, although a slight retardation of strength development was observed in mortars with higher w/b ratio. Tensile strength values were generally slightly improved with the use of SAP. Durability was assessed by measuring porosity, oxygen permeability, chloride conductivity, accelerated carbonation, and bulk diffusion. The generally improved durability properties, especially for mortars containing silica fume, indicates the potential to use SAP to design high quality concrete repair mortars.