Disperse-Reinforced Polystyrene Concrete Modified by Silica-Containing Additive

Abstract

The composition of disperse-reinforced polystyrene concrete for the manufacture of small-pieces load-bearing structural insulating wall products is developed. Its properties and microstructure are studied. It is composed of Portland cement, granular foamed polystyrene, basalt fibre, water and silica-containing modifier obtained by mixing condensed silica, superplasticizer S-3 and an aqueous solution of sodium water glass. The developed disperse-reinforced polystyrene concrete modified by silica-containing additive is characterized by higher values of adhesive strength (0.231 MPa), class by bending tension strength (Btb4), class by compressive strength (B5), cracking resistance coefficient (0.77), grade by frost-resistance (F1150) with a slight increase in the average density and thermal conductivity coefficient. The increase of physical and mechanical properties and frost resistance of polystyrene concrete of the developed composition is achieved by compaction and hardening of cement stone, improving its adhesion to granular foamed polystyrene due to the synergistic effect of a silica-containing modifier acting as an adhesive and structure-forming additive, and basalt fibre as a disperse-reinforcing component.