Effect of bonding materials on a construction joints

Abstract

This research is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree ofMaster of Science in Civil Engineering as per norms of Balamand University. The purpose of this research paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of different bonding agents on a concrete construction joint. The evaluation was for bonding with no additives depending on the concrete itself, bonding using latex as a concrete additive, and bonding using epoxy. The specimens for evaluation were cylinders and beams; half of the cylinders were poured and beams ,at an angle of 45 degree ,were poured and cured for 7 days, after which bonding agents were applied and concrete was poured to complete the other half. The specimens were cured for 4 days in water and the rest of the 28 days in the air for the latex and epoxy to cure. This procedure was repeated on a concrete compressive strength of 35, 45, 55 and 55MPa.Compressive strength and Brazilian tensile splitting tests were done on cylinders to evaluate the success of the bond.Also, a flexure test was done on beams. Accordingly, epoxy was more capable, than the latex, in achieving the desired bond on a concrete construction joint.