Theoretical study on the freeze resistance of concrete mixed with superabsorbent polymer (SAP) considering the reabsorption behavior of SAP

Abstract

This study investigates the behavior of concrete with superabsorbent polymer (SAP) under freezing conditions. SAP particles absorb water and create air voids in hardened concrete upon releasing the absorbed water. The air voids are posited to improve the freeze resistance of concrete. While this phenomenon has been experimentally verified, a contradictory finding has also been reported. This study elucidates the conflicting observations by interpreting the water reabsorption behavior of SAPs in hardened concrete. Previous models have been modified considering the SAP characteristics in hardened concrete. Lastly, the optimal SAP content for enhanced freeze resistance are proposed.

Keywords:

• Superabsorbent polymer
• absorbency
• capillary pressure
• solubility
• freeze–thaw resistance
• phase change
• spacing factor
• water pressure

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Acknowledgment

This work was supported by a grant (20SCIP-C159063-01) from Construction Technology Research Program funded by Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of Korean government. The Institute of Engineering Research in Seoul National University provided research facilities for this work.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by a grant (20SCIP-C159063-01) from Construction Technology Research Program funded by Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of Korean government.