Abstract
Studies to determine the influence of latex addition on the physical and mechanical properties of mortars are presented and discussed in the first part of the thesis. Three latices are used in this investigation; two styrene-butadiene rubber latices and one acrylic latex. An extensive Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM) study has been conducted on the influence of latex incorporation on the microstructural characteristics and crack propagation in cement paste and mortar. Existing theories of the mechanism of latex reinforcement of cement paste and mortar are investigated and reviewed. A satisfactory explanation is drawn between the experimental behaviour of the material and the SEM observation. The effect of various latex additions and curing conditions on the cement hydration in a polymer system is examined. A theoretical model for determining the degree of hydration and the physical composition of the latex-modified cement paste is produced and is compatible with the experimental results. The theoretical model of cement hydration in a polymer system is expected to be generally applicable to any latex-modified cement paste with any polymer-cement ratio.