Frost weathering of porous materials caused by
seasonal temperature changes is a major source of damage to the world’s
infrastructure and cultural heritage. Here we investigate poly(vinyl alcohol)
(PVA) addition as a means to enhance the freeze-thaw durability of concrete without
compromising its structural or mechanical integrity. We evaluate the ice
recrystallization inhibition activity of PVA in a cementitious environment and the
impact of PVA on key structural and mechanical properties, such as cement
hydration (products), microstructure, strength, as well as freeze‑thaw
resistance. We find that a low amount of PVA significantly reduces the surface
scaling of concrete and displays excellent ice recrystallization inhibition in
the saturated Ca(OH)<sub>2 </sub>solution which has a similar pH value as cement
pore solution, while it does not affect cement hydration, microstructure, nor
its mechanical properties. These findings contribute to new insights on
freeze-thaw damage mechanism and more importantly we disclose a new direction
for the design of concrete with excellent freeze‑thaw resistance.
Enhancing the Freeze-Thaw Durability of Concrete Through Ice Recrystallization Inhibition by Poly(vinyl Alcohol)
