Influences of shrinkage reducing admixture on the mechanical properties, drying shrinkage, water absorption and porosity of Portland cement mortar

The reduction in flexural strength and compressive strength at 28 days is 14% and 25%, respectively at 7% SRA dosage. In addition, SRA significantly reduces the drying shrinkage and water absorption of mortar. At 7% SRA dosage, the drying shrinkage at 53 days is reduced by 60% while the water absorption rate at 24 hours is reduced by 54%. However, SRA has a minor effect on the pore size distribution, effective porosity, and cumulative intrusion volume of mortar.