Testing and Specification of Polymer Concrete Materials in Singapore

Abstract

Pure cement mortar and concrete possess disadvantages such as brittleness, low bonding or adhesion strength, low tensile strength, large drying shrinkage, low chemical resistance. In order to overcome these disadvantages, polymer concrete is used as a construction material in Singapore as the properties of polymer-modified (or polymer cement) mortar and concrete are superior to conventional cement mortar. In Singapore, new products or technologies can be found through distributers, agents, etc. Singapore is able to afford and try high quality products to maintain the quality of a building and structure. The importance of applying polymer to protect, repair, coat and strengthen concrete structures in Singapore have grown in the last two decades. To ensure and maintain the standards of construction and building quality, polymer concrete are used extensively in new developments in Singapore. In this paper, the mechanical properties and its corresponding testing methods for several types of polymer concrete used in Singapore are discussed. These products include mortar used to repair concrete spalling, acrylic polymer cementitious coating, waterproofing membrane, epoxy mortars and grouts, fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) and epoxy resin. In addition, the specifications for the above products used in Singapore’s Housing Development Board (HDB) are discussed in the paper as it’s a requirement for suppliers to test their products in accredited laboratories before it can be used.