Affection of latex polymer to the energy absorption capacity of concrete matrix estimated by the Charpy impact test

The objective of this study is to investigate the affection of latex polymer on the energy absorption capacity of concrete matrix phase material: cement paste. The samples were prepared with a constantly water to cement ratio of 0.5. For the samples of latex modified cement pastes, latex polymer takes part in the mixture and reducing the water usage, hence, the dosage of latex polymer was chosen by 0%wt, 5%wt and 10%wt of water usage. The energy absorption capacity was estimated by a modern digital equipped Charpy impact experiment. In consequence, the energy absorption capacity increased approximately 50% when introducing latex polymer into the paste. The feasibility of using latex polymer as an admixture to enhance the energy absorption capacity of cement pastes as well as concrete was clarified in this study.