A novel method and mechanism for enhancing frost resistance in cement using hydrogel

The freeze-thaw durability of cementitious materials is a critical issue for long-term infrastructure performance. This paper proposes a novel approach that transitions from traditional passive methods of improving frost resistance to an active method. It fundamentally inhibits the freezing of pore water and reduces or eliminates frost heave forces. Hydrogels were prepared using a physical freeze-thaw method and its formation mechanism, microstructure, and mechanical properties were thoroughly analyzed. The hydrogels were then broken into particles and incorporated into cement to create enhanced cementitious materials. The frost resistance of these composites was evaluated to elucidate the mechanism by which the hydrogels improve frost resistance. Results indicated that the addition of hydrogels did not lead to the formation of new hydration products but promoted cement hydration by maintaining more unfrozen water. The amount of ice formation and the freezing rate in hydrogel cement composites were significantly lower than in pure cement paste . This effectively inhibited freeze-thaw damage and substantially improved frost resistance. Specifically, the mass loss rate of cement paste reached 7.19 % after only 125 freeze-thaw cycles, exceeding the freeze-thaw damage threshold. In contrast, hydrogel-enhanced cementitious materials demonstrated a mass loss rate of just 0.15 % after 250 freeze-thaw cycles. They also exhibited a compressive strength reduction of only about 10 %, maintaining nearly 50 MPa. Additionally, the flexural strength test for cement paste prism specimens could not be performed after 150 freeze-thaw cycles due to severe damage. In contrast, the flexural strength of hydrogel cement composites decreased by only 3.50 % at minimum. These results highlight the potential of hydrogel-modified cementitious materials for creating more resilient infrastructure that can withstand harsh freeze-thaw conditions. This advancement contributes to more sustainable construction practices. • Introduced hydrogel method reduces frost heave forces in cementitious materials. • Hydrogel addition results in only 0.15 % mass loss after 250 freeze-thaw cycles. • Maintains 50 MPa compressive strength with minimal strength loss over cycles. • Analysis shows hydrogels improve frost resistance by maintaining unfrozen water.