Structural behaviour of concrete combined with synthetic monomers

The work has indicated that precast heavy and lightweight concrete can be impregnated with monomers and polymerized by radiation techniques. The resultant P-IC material has been found to have improved structural properties compared with conventional concrete. The experimental results available show considerable statistical variations which are mainly due to inhomogeneity and porosity of the material. It follows that variation in strength should be expected. A considerable number of test specimens are required in order to obtain more reliable results. Further research is required to different types of composites to obtain foundamental understanding of the nature of the bonding between the polymer, concrete, perlite and aggregate. (orig./HP)