Effects on the Properties of Self-Compacting Cement Paste (PAA) with the Addition of Superabsorbent Polymer

The addition of Superabsorbent Polymer (SAP) decreases the effect of autogenous shrinkage present in pastes, mortars, and concretes. In this study we investigated the influence of the addition of SAP in self-compacting cement paste mixtures. Eighteen 5 × 10 cylindrical specimens were molded in all, three for each mixture (CPII base, CPII 0.15%SAP/600μm, CPII 0.15%SAP/800 μm, CPV base, CPV 0.15%SAP/600 μm, CPV 0.15%SAP/800 μm). Two types of cement were tested, CP II-Z and CP V-ARI with 0.15% of weight replaced per two diameters of SAP (600 μm and 800 μm). The samples followed the standards required. Mini slump tests were carried out in the fresh state, and uniaxial compressive strength, elastic modulus, specific mass, absorption, and air content in the hardened state after 28 days. The results obtained show the SAP is high indicated to replaced cement in small % of weight i/to fresh and hardened paste. Likewise, the group mix n° 3 composed of CPII 0.15% of SAP with 800 μm diameter presented the best result.