Mechanical properties of cement mortars with superabsorbent polymers

This paper deals with the mechanical properties of mortars with internal curing, by means of water-entrainment with super absorbent particles (SAP). The use of SAP in high performance concrete is focusing on the mitigation of autogenous deformation, arising from self-desiccation. The effect of SAP in mortars subjected to several curing conditions and different water/cement ratio was analysed. The curing conditions ranged between 30 and 100%RH at 20 degrees C temperature. Water/ cement ratio ranged between 0.25 and 0.35 for both reference and internal cured mixtures. Tensile and compressive strength tests were performed at different ages. Results include weight loss measurements with time and its relation to environmental conditions and strength. Internal curing by means of SAP was efficient in maintaining the mechanical properties of mortars regardless the variation of external relative humidity.