Polymer Concrete for a Modular Construction System: Investigation of Mechanical Properties and Bond Behaviour by Means of X-Ray CT

Abstract

In the presented paper, the results of a BMWi-supported project of applied research are reported. The main objective of this work is the development of a system of PC elements for the application as roof or floor plates. Based on the determination of the creep behaviour of the PC at different temperatures, reinforcement techniques for the PC elements were developed. As reinforcement, materials from renewable resources such as bamboo, Tonkin cane and Chinese silvergrass were tested. The challenge was to ensure a sufficient residual loading capacity of the elements despite the already high bending tensile strength of the PC. It was found that especially Tonkin cane performed sufficiently well as reinforcement with regard to loading capacity. However, X-ray CT investigations revealed insufficient bond between reinforcement and PC especially within the vicinity of the bearings, which means the anchoring has to be improved further.