This paper deals with the effect of silica fume and styrene-butadiene latex (SBR) on the microstructure of the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) between Portland cement paste and aggregates (basalt). Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive x ray analysis system (EDX) was used to determine the ITZ thickness. In the plain concrete a marked ITZ around the aggregate particles (55 µm) was observed, while in concretes with silica fume or latex SBR the ITZ was less pronounced (35-40 µm). However, better results were observed in concretes with silica fume and latex SBR (20-25 µm).
concrete; interfacial transition zone; silica fume; polymers; SEM
