Mechanical Properties of Cement Mortar with Yang Na (Dipterocarpus alatus) Latex Dispersed by Acetone

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the use of Yang Na (Dipterocarpus alatus) latex, a natural resin, as a partial replacement for cement in cement mortar. Acetone was used as a dispersing agent to enhance the compatibility between the latex and the cement matrix. Various acetone-to-latex ratios were tested, and the effects on the mechanical properties of the mortar were analyzed, including compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, density, and water absorption. The results showed that incorporating Yang Na latex reduced compressive strength. Sample A1, which replaced 5% of the cement by weight with latex, exhibited an average compressive strength reduction of 19.1% compared to the control mortar (C0). However, the splitting tensile strength tended to increase, with sample A5—containing the highest acetone content—achieving an increase of up to 42.3%. Mortar density increased with curing time, while water absorption decreased due to the filling of voids by hydration products. Considering both compressive and tensile strengths, sample A1 provided the most balanced performance. At 14 days of curing, its compressive strength decreased by only 14.8% compared to C0, while the splitting tensile strength increased by 2.4%. These findings indicate that the appropriate combination of acetone and Yang Na latex can effectively enhance the mechanical properties of cement mortar.