Investigation of gypsum composites with different lightweight fillers: A physico-mechanical characterisation regarding possibilities for building applications

• Published in: Journal of Building Engineering 2023-11, Vol.79, p.107813, Article 107813
• Main Authors: Álvarez, Manuel, Santos, Paulo, Ferrández, Daniel
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Geomaterials; Lightened plaster; Precast; Super absorbent polymers
• ISSN: 2352-7102; 2352-7102
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jobe.2023.107813

This paper shows the characterization of a new lightened gypsum-based material for use in buildings. Super absorbent polymer (SAP) Potassium Polyacrylate has been used as main lightener leading to a 20% density reduction. In addition, tests have been carried out with the lightened plaster material reinforced with vermiculite (VER), recycled glass wool (RGW), expanded clay (EC). A significant improvement in physical properties was achieved. After material evaluation, a new precast design was elaborated and tested for its use in building. Physical-mechanical properties of these new material have been studied. A complementary ignitability test was also conducted to set this material's suitability for its use in building. All samples performed over standard minimum requirements. Samples containing RGW obtained best results in both, thermal conductivity, and acoustic absorption. [Display omitted] •The addition of geomaterials in gypsum-based materials leads to a significant reduction of their density.•Recycled glass wool fibre addition can improve plaster-based materials physical properties up to a 20%.•Thermal conductivity can be decreased up to a 53% by adding expanded clay.•Geomaterials improve acoustic absorption significantly in plaster-based materials.