Effect of Binder Content and Coupling Agents on Mechanical Properties of Epoxy— Aggregate Composites

Epoxy resin—aggregate composites, also known as epoxy concretes, in volving siliceous quartzite aggregates have been investigated for the effect of binder content and silane coupling agents on the mechanical properties. Ef fect of binder content on the mechanical properties shows a maximum in split-tensile strength for 12-14 wt% binder content, for the studied gradings of the aggregates. Optimum value of binder skin-thickness corresponding to the maximum in split-tensile strength is determined according to the method suggested by Gamski. Performance of two silane coupling agents is evaluated for this system. It is also observed that application of silane coupling agent through mixing it directly to the resin-aggregate mix results in sufficient im provement of properties, but this method of application produces less im provement in properties compared to its application as pre-treatment on aggregates.