Preparation of Epoxy-Resin Concrete Using Microwave Curing Method and Its Pavement Performance Evaluation

Epoxy resin concrete can be used as one kind of repairing material for pavement. In this study, Bisphenol A epoxy resin (E51) and four different types of curing agents were selected. By comparing the mechanical strength of different epoxy gel systems under microwave curing conditions, a polyamide (V-125) curing agent was confirmed for its good comprehensive mechanical properties. The addition of diluents decreases the viscosity of the gel system, which is beneficial to construction. The compressive and tensile strength decrease, but the impact strength increases with increasing dosage of diluent. Ten percent diluents was recommended through comprehensive consideration. The compressive strength, tensile strength, and impact strength of E51/V-125 with 10% diluent under microwave curing conditions are slightly higher than that under thermal curing conditions. A self-made microwave radiation device was applied for curing the large size epoxy concrete specimens. The index of Marshall stability, air voids, and flow value of epoxy resin concrete were put forward. The gradation middle value of dense-graded asphalt concrete (AC-13) and 5.0% gel-stone ratio were determined using the Marshall method. The high and low temperature, and water-resistant, oil-resistant, and anti-skid properties of the microwave curing concrete were evaluated, and the results shows it has good pavement performance. (C) 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.