The effect of Superabsorbent Polymers (SAP) on perormance of fly ash cementitious mortars exposed to accelerated freezing/thawing conditions

The paper is focused on identification of micro-structural and mechanical alterations in porous matrices of Portland fly ash cement mortar, during frost deterioration. An attempt is made to assess the efficiency of superabsorbent polymer (SAP) ‘protection’ based on analysis of three SAP types with different water absorption/desorption capacities. Two different exposure regimes have been adopted in the study; the exposure to freeze/thaw cycles and the exposure to freeze/thaw with de-icing solution. In order to eval- uate the effect of SAPs on the micro-structural features of deteriorating mortars comprehensive MIP and SEM analyses were performed. It has been found that SAPs with high water absorption capacities may prevent flexural strength reduction caused by frost action.