The properties of concrete can be improved by adding various types of polymer additives. These are used to improve the micro- and macro-behavior of concrete. They are also known as admixtures.

Among the most popular polymers are superplasticizers, redispersible powders, and latexes. Moreover, there are polymers with different chemical structures, including styrene-butadiene copolymers (SBR), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers, and lignosulfonates.

These polymer additives can significantly change the properties of concrete. Some of the benefits of polymers include enhanced flowability, increased anti-penetrability, freezing-thawing resistance, and improved bond strength. In addition, they can improve the durability of concrete, the setting time, and the mechanical properties of concrete.

Polymers can be added directly to concrete, in the form of a powder. Alternatively, they can be added with the cement or sand. When a powder is added with the cement, it is dispersed in the sand and aggregates.

Another way of increasing the hardness of concrete is to add redispersible polymer powders. Redispersible powders have been found to enhance the tensile strength and mechanical properties of mortar. Moreover, they have been studied to improve the flexural performance of concrete.

Superplasticizers are also used to improve the properties of concrete. They are non-flammable, non-corrosive, and can be used in a wide range of applications. However, they have certain disadvantages, such as bleeding and phase separation.

If you want to improve the properties of your concrete, you can consider adding superplasticizers, redispersible polymer powders, and latexes.