abstract
This work evaluates, for the first time, the possibility of producing multifunctional alkali-activated composites combining ultra-low density, low thermal conductivity, high acoustic absorption, and good moisture buffering capacity. The composites were prepared using cork as a lightweight aggregate. This novel material might promote energy savings and tackle the CO2 emissions of the building sector, while simultaneously improve the comfort for inhabitants (e.g. humidity levels regulation and sound pollution reduction). The composites apparent density (as low as 168 kg/m(3)) and thermal conductivity (as low as 68 mW/m K) are amongst the lowest ever reported for alkali-activated materials (AAM) composites and foams, while their sound absorption ability is comparable to the best performing AAM foams reported to date, but in addition these eco-friendly composites also show good ability to passively adjust the humidity levels inside buildings. The multifunctional properties shown by the cork - AAM composites set them apart from other conventional building materials and might contribute to the global sustainability of the construction sector. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
keywords
GEOPOLYMER FOAMS; THERMAL-CONDUCTIVITY; SILICA-FUME; INSULATING PROPERTIES; INDOOR AMBIENT; WASTE; CONCRETE; MORTARS; STRENGTH; AGENT
subject category
Construction & Building Technology; Energy & Fuels; Engineering
authors
Novais, RM; Carvalheiras, J; Senff, L; Lacasta, AM; Cantalapiedra, IR; Giro-Paloma, J; Seabra, MP; Labrincha, JA
our authors
João António de Sousa Carvalheiras
PhD Student
João António Labrincha Baptista
Full professor
Luciano Senff
Post-Doc Fellowship
Maria Paula Seabra
Assistant Professor
Rui Miguel Novais
Assistant Professoracknowledgements
R.M. Novais wishes to thank FCT (Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology) for supporting his work (researcher grant Ref. CEECIND/00335/2017). J. Carvalheiras also acknowledges his FCT grant (SFRH/BD/144562/2019). This work was developed within the scope of the project CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, FCT Ref. UID/CTM/50011/2019, financed by national funds through the FCT/MCTES.