Characterization of a new lightened gypsum‐based material reinforced with fibers

Abstract

This paper shows the characterization of a new lightened gypsum‐based material for use in buildings. A plaster material has been designed with a polymeric compound based on polyvinyl acetate, bicarbonate and a boric acid solution, which reduce the density and thermal conductivity by up to 20% and 30%, respectively. In addition, tests have been carried out with the lightened plaster material reinforced with glass (GF), basalt (BF), polypropylene (PPF) and wood (WF) fibers. A significant improvement in mechanical properties was achieved. All samples obtained resistance values greater than 2 MPa in flexion and 3 MPa in compression. Physico‐chemical analysis were also carried out. The study is completed with a statistical analysis, where confidence intervals have been obtained for the mean at 95% confidence for each of the physical properties studied.