Mechanical behavior of gypsum reinforced by synthetic polymers

Abstract

A study on gypsum mechanical resistance is presented. It is based or it’s reinforcing by means of synthetic polymer addition, either in fiber or in watery dispersion forms. The increase of gypsum mechanical characteristics is attempted, due to its relevant qualities like the following: abundance in Spain, low energetic cost, hadliness, and household properties (acoustical, higrotermical, etc.). The increase of gypsum mechanical characteristics allows its use as a laminar premanufactured element for its applications in interior divisions and handing ceiling. The thesis sets up the gypsum reinforcing by means of synthetic polymer use, as both materials show a similar cohesion system at its structural level, by means of Van der Waals forces. That cohesion system is responsible of the adherence established between the gypsum matrix and the reinforcing additions, producing dehydrates crystals on the fiber surface and achieving a perfect union between both materials during its manufacturing. A theoretical study on synthetic polymer infernal structure and¡ properties is carried out, concluding with the selection of the best to be added with the gypsum. This theoretical study is completed with: the analysis of each one of the selected polymers depending on the manufacturing process to make fibers or dispersion, and with a theoretical study of reinforced materials laying the theo retical fundamentals for the analysis of the results. An experimental process is made, verifying the joint behavior of each of the previously selected additions. It determines the proper fiber choice and dispersion, as well as this optimum percentage. After the additions has been chosen and optimized, its qualification is tested both for panels and for impact and stress tests.