Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The delamination of building facades urgently requires inorganic adhesive mortar with high adhesive durability. Geopolymer (GP) mortars present an environmentally friendly alternative to Portland cement (PC). But the effects of common polymer additives on GP mortars remain underexplored. This study investigates the influence of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and vinyl acetate-ethylene (VAE) on the workability, mechanical properties, durability, and microstructure of GP mortar. Results indicate that an optimal HPMC content (0.4 wt%) improves fluidity (about 6%), compressive strength (about 16%), and adhesive strength (about 20%) of GP mortar by introducing uniform microbubbles. However, excessive HPMC reduces flowability and adhesion due to its thickening effect. In contrast, VAE significantly enhances adhesive strength (about 28%) despite decreasing compressive strength ( about 17%) by inhibiting the alkali-activation. This improvement is attributed to a continuous polymer film that forms physical interlocks and chemical bonds with the GP matrix. Furthermore, HPMC was found to improve the durability of GP mortar, whereas VAE did not. These findings provide crucial guidance for formulating high-performance GP adhesive mortars for building applications.
Source: Buildings
Authors: Wenjun Ji, Pengfei Chen, Ying Lu, Zeyang Zhang, Baolong Shan, Sha Li, Mengyan Chi, Haifeng Yu
Institution: Hebei University of Science and Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
Awards: G4887535959, G8410464694
OpenAlex ID: W4414989209