Polymer Concretes Based on Thermosetting Polymers: Technological, Physical, Mechanical Properties and Use in Construction

The article provides an analytical review of the main problems and prospects for the use and introduction of polymer concrete in modern construction industries. It was found that due to high plasticity, low porosity and the ability to quickly gain strength, polymer concretes are used for the manufacture of decorative products of small architecture, structural load-bearing and decorative overhead parts, decorative paving tiles and paving stones, products for hydrotechnical purposes, etc. by methods of vibration molding and casting. The classification of polymer concretes used in modern construction industries is provided, as well as an idea of the properties of the most popular polymer concretes based on thermosetting polymers – furan, epoxy and polyester. The advantages and disadvantages of known polymer concretes and the main promising directions of implementation for the manufacture of building products and structures are given. Attention is focused on the influence of the qualitative and quantitative composition of polymer concrete, the nature of the thermosetting polymer binder, the type of fillers and aggregates, the terms of hardening, the degree of polymerization on the most important physical, mechanical and technological properties of the finished materials.