Recent Advances in Hybrid Polymer–Cement Composites: Interfacial Engineering, Self-Curing Mechanisms, and Microstructural Performance

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Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | 03 | Page :
    By

    Rinu Isah R. J,

  • K. Vijay Bhaskar Raju,

  • R. Venkata Krishnaiah,

  1. Research Scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, Bharath Institute of Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu, India
  2. Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Bharath Institute of Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu, India
  3. Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Bharath Institute of Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

The increasing demand for high-performance polymer-modified cementitious composites has stimulated extensive research into hybrid self-curing composite systems with engineered aggregate phases. Self-curing hybrid polymer–cement composite systems, using recycled aggregates, constitute one of the solutions proposed by researchers to overcome problems related to moisture loss during the curing process, shrinkage, cracking, and the limited amount of natural aggregate available. This critical review provides an overview of recent developments concerning the production, processing, characterization, and properties of Advanced self-curing hybrid polymer–cement composite systems made from recycled aggregates. It focuses on the mutual interactions between the polymers used as additives to the system, cement hydration products, internal curing agents, and the nature of the recycled aggregate that can affect the properties of the composite. In this study, several aspects concerning the production of the self-cured hybrid cementitious systems with regard to processing technologies, mixing and curing methods, surface treatments of recycled aggregates, and the use of other additives are critically evaluated. Some of the most important results point to the significance of proper hybridization between polymers as binders and self-cured materials that result in improvements of the interface transition zone quality, reduction of water requirements, reduction of autogenous shrinkage, and improved longevity. There is still much work to be done on the variability in recycled aggregate characteristics, interactions with polymers, practicality of use in the field, and the lack of design standards. Some future areas of investigation have been identified for this technology.

Keywords: Hybrid polymer–cement composites; Self-curing mechanisms; Polymer film formation; Interfacial transition zone; Microstructural engineering; Composite performance; Recycled aggregate reinforcement.

How to cite this article:
Rinu Isah R. J, K. Vijay Bhaskar Raju, R. Venkata Krishnaiah. Recent Advances in Hybrid Polymer–Cement Composites: Interfacial Engineering, Self-Curing Mechanisms, and Microstructural Performance. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(03):-.
How to cite this URL:
Rinu Isah R. J, K. Vijay Bhaskar Raju, R. Venkata Krishnaiah. Recent Advances in Hybrid Polymer–Cement Composites: Interfacial Engineering, Self-Curing Mechanisms, and Microstructural Performance. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(03):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=248073


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Ahead of Print Subscription Review Article
Volume 14
03
Received 08/06/2026
Accepted 16/06/2026
Published 30/06/2026
Publication Time 22 Days
42

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