Laboratory evaluation of permeability and strength of polymer-modified pervious concrete

Pervious concrete has been increasingly used to reduce the amount of runoff water and improve the water quality near pavements and parking lots. However, due to the significantly reduced strength associated with the high porosity, pervious concrete mixtures currently cannot be used in highway pavement structures. A laboratory experiment was conducted in this study to improve the strength properties of pervious concrete through the incorporation of latex polymer. This study focused on the balance between permeability and strength properties of polymer-modified pervious concrete (PMPC). In addition to latex, natural sand and fiber were included to enhance the strength properties of pervious concrete. The test results indicate that it was possible to produce pervious concrete mixture with acceptable permeability and strength through the combination of latex and sand. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.