1. A new polymer-modified waterproof mortar was developed using steel slag, iron tailings and fly ash as aggregates.
2. A core–shell styrene–acrylic copolymer was used as the mortar modifier.
3. The mortar gave better mechanical properties and water resistance compared to those with commercial EVA and SAE as modifiers.
The article is generally reliable and trustworthy, providing a detailed overview of the development of a new polymer-modified waterproof mortar using steel slag, iron tailings and fly ash as aggregates, with a core–shell styrene–acrylic copolymer used as the modifier. The article provides evidence for its claims in terms of mechanical properties and water resistance tests, which are conducted under optimal conditions determined by factor design. Furthermore, microstructures of the polymer-modified mortars are compared and discussed in detail.
However, there are some potential biases that should be noted in this article. Firstly, the article does not explore any counterarguments or alternative solutions to the problem at hand; it only focuses on one solution without considering other possible options or approaches that could be taken. Secondly, while the article does mention potential risks associated with steel slag expansive behavior in confined applications, it does not provide any further details on how to mitigate these risks or what precautions should be taken when using steel slag in construction materials. Finally, while the article does provide evidence for its claims regarding mechanical properties and water resistance tests, it does not provide any evidence for its claims regarding environmental benefits or economic savings from using steel slag as an aggregate in construction materials.