ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the process of hydrating Portland cement. Polymer-impregnated concrete (PIC), even with polymer loading that is small in comparison to that of polymer-cement concrete, which is 20%, possesses much higher mechanical properties, especially compressive strength. Thus the strength of PIC is accumulation of strength of concrete plus the strength obtained due to the adhesive bond polymer provides and the strength of the damaged or weak part. Compounds that hasten the nucleation and growth of calcium hydroxide act as accelerators, and compounds that delay this act as retarders. Calcium salts act as accelerators because they raise the initial calcium ion concentration and lower the solubility product of calcium hydroxide. Cross-linking and insolubility of the polymer frequently accompany these reactions, and the behavior is substantially changed. Some low-molecular-weight organic substances also have a considerable influence on Portland cement during hydration.
