AbstractMechanical and durability properties and the fracture morphology of polystyrene‐impregnated mortar composites prepared by impregnation of styrene and itsin situpolymerization by gamma radiation have been studied. Variation of flexural strength of the composites, percent extractable polystyrene, and its molecular weight suggest crosslinking of the impregnated polymer under the influence of prolonged gamma irradiation. Moreover, crosslinking appears to contribute toward the improvement in flexural strength but has little effect on durability properties. SEM micrographs of the composites reveal a very weak cement–polymer interfacial bonding which is believed to be responsible for poor durability properties of the composi
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