TABLE OF CONTENTS From the mid to late 20th century, the manufacture and subsequent uses of polymers within the construction industry has grown substantially [1, 2]. Actual interest in using polymers to modify the physical properties of cementitious materials escalated from the 1950s [3-6]. In 1956, the first polymer modified bridge overlay was produced by incorporating a styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) into the concrete mortar, which was subsequently applied to the Cheboygan bridge in Michigan, USA [7]. From this point the use of such products for this type of application along with concrete repairs intensified.
Common problems associated with the initial polymers used in the modification of cementitious systems included a susceptibility to moisture and deterioration due to weathering [8]. A reduction in composite density due to an increase of air trapped during the mixing process and hence heightened porosity was also noted [9]. Whilst the ability of the polymer to effectively film form to its fullest capacity decreased as the thickness of the applied section increased. Developments in polymer technology have been tailored to address these issues and subsequently minimise such problems whilst maintaining the benefits such polymers impart when used as a cement additive [10]. The end use of the cementitious materials and the environment into which it to be placed will determine the quantity and type of polymer incorporated [11].
Today with the development of polymer modified repair mortars, self-smoothing cementitious floor screeds, paving, tile adhesives as well as the actual latex being utilised as a primer system,...
