A comprehensive performance evaluation of the cement-based expanded perlite plastering mortar.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Construction Engineering
• Building Materials Science

Background:

• Single performance evaluations are insufficient for cement-based plastering mortars in diverse wall applications.
• Existing methods do not fully capture the complex performance requirements of modern construction materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive performance evaluation method for cement-based plastering mortars.
• To assess various mortar formulations, including common, lightweight, and optimized types, based on multiple performance criteria.

Main Methods:

• A novel evaluation method was proposed, considering physical characteristics, microstructures, thermal performance, mechanical properties, and adsorbability.
• Relative performances were compared against established standards and prior research.
• A comprehensive performance value calculation equation was derived and applied to tested mortar specimens.

Main Results:

• Common mortar (CM), expanded and vitrified beads as aggregates mortar (EVBM), and wood fibres, sepiolite, and expanded perlite-based plastering mortar (WM) were tested.
• Optimized mortars, especially those incorporating diatomite, sepiolite, and fly ash, outperformed single-component additives.
• Mortars with single functions, like thermal insulation, showed specific functional performance.

Conclusions:

• The developed comprehensive evaluation method provides a robust framework for assessing cement-based plastering mortars.
• Combined additives like diatomite, sepiolite, and fly ash offer enhanced performance over individual components.
• The study validates the effectiveness of tailored mortar formulations for specific building applications.