Polymer concrete is a modern construction material and combines old technology of hydraulic portland cement concrete with the modern technology of polymers.
Portland cement concrete is made from sand and natural quarried aggregates mixed with cement and water to act as the binder. It has adhesive and cohesive properties and is capable of binding together mineral fragments in the presence of water. Polymer concrete is made up of very similar sand and aggregate mixed together with a polyester resin and a hardener to act as the binder.
The similarity of polymer concrete with portland cement ensures comparable thermal properties (expansion and contraction characteristics) for optimum compatibility of polymer concrete castings (channel, pit bodies etc…) with concrete and concrete based pavements. Typically, polymer concrete has a longer maintenance-free service life than Portland cement concrete and possesses also other advantages compared to portland cement concrete such as increased freeze-thaw resistance; high abrasion resistance; increased flexural, compressive and tensile strengths; fast setting times (good durability; improved chemical resistance in harsh environments.
Polymer concrete should not be confused with engineered stone and therefore does not present with the associated hazards. However as with all cementitious materials (concrete, polymer concrete, bricks, mortar etc.), wet cutting, the use of personal protective equipment (including masks) in well-ventilated areas is strongly recommended.
