Investigation of Strength of Polymer-Modified Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Under Water Saturation

Ensuring the sufficient strength of concrete structures and buildings exposed to constant humidity is of great importance in hydraulic engineering, as increased humidity reduces the strength of concrete and ultimately destroys it. Although the static strength of concrete has been thoroughly studied, its impact strength, including that in a wet state, remains unexplored. This is especially relevant for modified concretes, for which there are no experimental data on the effect of moisture on their strength characteristics. This article presents the results of an experimental quantitative assessment of the static and impact strength of polymer–cement fiber-reinforced concrete under water saturation conditions. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of polymer components and fiber reinforcement on changes in concrete strength under increased and prolonged exposure to moisture. A comparative assessment of the static and impact strength of concrete samples in dry and water-saturated conditions was conducted. It was found that the addition of polymeric materials reduces water absorption and increases the impact strength of concrete. Their combined use with fibers ensures the preservation of strength properties in conditions of high concrete humidity. The results can be used in the development of moisture-resistant concrete compositions for hydraulic structures and other facilities operating in aquatic environments.