Classification of mortars with incorporation of phase change materials based on their physical, mechanical and thermal properties

Abstract

Currently, there are several mortars available for application in the construction industry. These mortars can be based on different binders, have different physical and mechanical properties and even other specific properties. However, the correct selection of a mortar becomes increasingly difficult. Thus, comes up the need to classify different mortars based on a specific criteria and a single procedure. In this way, it will be possible to identify the most appropriate mortars according to their function. In this research, a materials ranking procedure developed by Czarnecki and Lukowski is applied, based on an usability function. The ranking procedure transforms experimental results of properties into one numerical value. The products can be classified according to their individual properties or even an optimized combination of different properties. Thus, the main purpose of this study was the ranking of mortars based in different binders with incorporation of phase change materials. Hydraulic lime, gypsum and cement were the binders studied. For each binder, three different mortars were developed, reference mortars (0% PCM), mortars with incorporation of 40% of PCM and mortars with incorporation of 40% of PCM and 1% of fibers. Based on the results it was possible to conclude that the incorporation of PCM in mortars changes their global performance.