Polymer-Impregnated Concrete--an Economic Feasibility Study.

During the past few years, new processes such as polymer-impregnation of concrete have become technologically feasible and available for use by the precast concrete industry. Increased strength to weight ratios, stiffness, aesthetic potential, and durability are all attainable improvements provided by polymer-impregnated concrete PIC over conventional concrete CONV. However, the industry has yet to employ this new process. It is evident that PIC is a superior material and its employment is only a question of costs. The objective of this work is to assess the economic attractiveness of PIC as a building material. When the thermal-catalytic method is used, the cost of PIC is comparable to that of conventional precast concrete. The relative position of PIC versus its competitor conventional precast concrete is improved when the building site is far away from the plant lower transportation cost for PIC and when the construction involves exterior elements higher durability and aesthetic potentials of PIC.