Prediction of stress-strain relationship for polyester polymer concrete using recycled polyethylene terephthalate under compression

Abstract

The relationship between stress and strain for polymer concrete under compression was analysed, and the effects of resin content, silane treatment, curing age, and temperature were investigated. These properties are necessary to gain a better understanding of the mechanical behaviour of polymer concrete elements. The polymer concrete cured at an elevated temperature showed a higher rate of compressive strength and elastic modulus gain than that cured at room temperature (20 degrees C). For cylinders that were cured at an elevated temperature (70 degrees C) and silane-treated, both the ascending and descending branches of the compressive stress-strain curve became steeper and more linear. A stress-strain model was developed to represent the stress-strain relationship of polymer concrete under compression. This model fitted the experimental data remarkably well and accurately reflected the descending branch of the stress-strain curve and the declining trend in ductility.