Mechanical characterization of a styrene-butadiene modified mortar

Polymer-modified mortars (PMCs) are used in the construction industry as ti le adhesives or frontage coatings. This way of modifying classical mortars improves practical use and adhesion properties. However, the influence of t he polymer phase on the durability and the mechanical properties of the mod ified mortars are still unknown. Three-point bending and compression tests were carried out on PMCs and classical mortar beams. The tests were made un der strain control in order to reach the softening part of the stress-strai n curve. The compression tests show the influence of polymer content on ela stic characteristics, mechanical resistance and strain at rupture. Three-po int bending tests reveal the PMC behavior in tension and the damage evoluti on is monitored by the loss of stiffness. Finally, scanning electron micros copy shows the polymer distribution in the composites. (C) 2001 Elsevier Sc ience S.A. All rights reserved.