Elastic Behavior of Polymer‐Impregnated Porous Ceramics

Abstract

The effect of polymer impregnation on the elastic behavior of porous ceramics was investigated. Large increases in the Young's, shear, and bulk moduli and Poisson's ratio were observed. On the basis of a two‐dimensional model containing elliptical inclusions, it was shown that the primary role of the polymer on impregnation is to significantly offset the original reduction in elastic moduli caused by the pore phase. The relative effect of polymer impregnation on elastic behavior increases with increasing pore volume fraction and pore ellipticity. These conclusions are also expected to explain the elastic behavior of polymer‐modified cements and concretes.