Mechanical performance and microstructure of cement paste/mortar modified by VAEC dispersible powder cured under different temperatures

In this work, the roles of curing temperature on the mechanical performance and microstructure of cement paste/mortar modified by VAEC dispersible powder are reported. The experimental results show that as compared with mortars cured at standard condition, the strengths of mortars cured at 60 degrees C are enhanced, whereas the 100 degrees C curing temperature makes a side effect. The formation of carboxyl-containing substances is facilitated at elevated temperatures and meanwhile the pores are refined and the thickness of polymer film is reduced together with the pores in the polymer film are increased. These alterations are responsible for the changes of mechanical performances. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Increasing curing temperature can enhance the strength of cement paste/mortar modified by VAEC dispersible powder, but excessively high temperature may have adverse effects. Elevated temperatures facilitate the formation of carboxyl-containing substances, refine pores, reduce the thickness of the polymer film, and increase pores in the polymer film.