Grantee Research Project Results
Cement-Polymer Composites From Recycled Polymers for Construction
EPA Contract Number: EPD04041Title: Cement-Polymer Composites From Recycled Polymers for Construction
Investigators: Abdelkader, Mohammed
Current Investigators: Loutfy, Raouf O.
Small Business: MER Corporation
EPA Contact: Richards, April
Phase: I
Project Period: March 1, 2004 through August 31, 2004
Project Amount: $70,000
RFA: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) - Phase I (2004) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: SBIR - Waste , Hazardous Waste/Remediation , Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
Description:
During this Phase I research project, MER Corporation will investigate the effects of recycled polymers on cement-based materials, particularly the effects on mechanical properties, thermal conductivity, and stability to water and air. Conventional construction materials based on cement usually are poor thermal insulators and very permeable to water. The latter properties have been improved to a certain extent by coating cement-based materials with polymers or by adding certain polymers to them. Despite the improvements, the coating forms an impermeable barrier for the trapped moisture, causing serious problems and damage to the structure. The combination of advanced polymer chemical modification and advanced formulations of cement/polymers could lead to improved thermally insulated, self-extinguishing, and moisture semipermeable materials. These novel materials will result in significant energy and cost savings as well as affordable and robust housing. Anticipated benefits and potential commercial applications of the research and development include low-cost, ultra-lightweight cement-polymer composites with improved strength, structural stability, and reduced thermal conductivity for zero-energy buildings.
Supplemental Keywords:
small business, SBIR, cement-polymer composites, recycled polymers, construction, thermal insulators, semipermeable materials, structural stability, zero-energy buildings, EPA., RFA, Scientific Discipline, Sustainable Industry/Business, Sustainable Environment, Environmental Chemistry, Technology for Sustainable Environment, Chemistry and Materials Science, Environmental Engineering, recycling solid waste, environmentally conscious manufacturing, alternative products, green building design, recycled polymers, composites, environmentally friendly green products, recycling, cement polymer composites, construction material, pollution prevention, polymer designProgress and Final Reports:
SBIR Phase II:
Cement-Polymer Composites From Recycled Polymers for Construction Applications | Final ReportThe perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.