Properties of concrete with coated aggregates under different loading conditions

Properties of concrete can be improved using different coating materials and chemicals. Some of the materials, however, are not effective as there is a weak bond between the coarse aggregate and the cement mortar. Hence, in this research, the mechanical and dynamic properties of concrete with epoxy resin, epoxy-sand and silicon coated aggregates at different volume fractions ranging from 5 to 15 percent were experimentally investigated. The test results indicate that there are improvements in compressive strength of concrete ranging from 10 % to 18 %, in which a maximum strength was achieved by using 15 percent epoxy-sand coating. Furthermore, a 5 % epoxy resin coating, resulting in an increase in compressive and tensile strengths of concrete by 5% and there are enhancements in static and dynamic modulus of elasticity by 2.7 %. In general, concrete specimens made with aggregates coated with epoxy-sand have higher performance in compressive strength as compared to using aggregates epoxy and silicon coated aggregates. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that coating of coarse aggregates with epoxy and epoxy-sand can be used as an alternative building and construction material to enhance the mechanical and dynamic properties of concrete.