Abstract

In this study, the effect of the epoxy resin and mineral filler ratio on the density, compressive strength, flexural strength, water absorption, and structure of polymer matrices was investigated. The combined effect of Portland cement and microsilica on the structure–property relationship of epoxy matrices remains insufficiently understood. The control mixture was made from 100% epoxy resin with a hardener. Various types of mineral fillers, Portland cement (PC), microsilica (MS) and their mixtures were introduced by volume from 0 to 50% in increments of 10%. Experimental findings indicate that an optimal resin addition to a polymer matrix enhances strength and, consequently, decreases expenses. Epoxy–polymer matrices with an optimal mineral filler content of up to 30% demonstrate the highest durability. The increases in compressive and flexural strength for the matrix with 30% PC were 7.3% and 11.5%, for the matrix with 30% MS they were 4.1% and 4.4%, and the increases were 11.2% and 13.2% for the matrix with 15%PC+15%MS. Introducing a mineral filler increases the density of epoxy–polymer matrices up to 50%. Water absorption of polymer matrices increases as the amount of mineral filler in the matrix increases. The microstructure of polymer matrices with mineral fillers is dense and homogeneous, with a small number of pores. In optimal quantities, the mineral filler is evenly distributed in the polymer binder, improves the particle packing density, and creates additional stress redistribution centers. The polymer matrix of 70% epoxy resin, 15% PC and 15% MS is the most optimal in terms of the properties obtained: a density of 1282 kg/m3; compressive strength of 54.7 MPa; flexural strength of 20.6 MPa; and water absorption of 0.94%. In the future, it is planned to use this epoxy–polymer matrix composition in the development of high-performance concrete intended for manufacturing machine tool beds.

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