ABSTRACT
Natural polymers are the organic materials found in nature. Consisting of many components and having a natural balance, they are stable in a wide range of atmospheres. Thermoplastics are normally linear polymers and are relatively soluble though certain varieties show low solubility due to the extreme length of chains or the chemical groups attached to the chains. Thermosets are three-dimensional polymers, consisting of long chains connected into a three-dimensional network. Most of the latexes have a plasticizing effect on mortars and concrete, similar to that of the ordinary concrete plasticizers. It increases the workability, allowing the water to cement ratio to be reduced while keeping the same workability. The main additives in this group are based on water-soluble thermosetting resins such as phenol formaldehyde, melamine formaldehyde, epoxy, and lignosulfonates. Synthetic polymers are taking the place of natural polymers, at least in urban construction.
