Earth-based repair mortars: experimental analysis with different binders and natural fibers

RESTAPIA 2012 - Int. Conf. on Rammed Earth Conservation, Valencia, 21-23 June 2012

This work intends to contribute for a better knowledge of earth-based repair mortars. The studied mortars are made of a commercial earth (consisting mainly of clay), and other components namely: sand; powder hydrated air-lime; natural hydraulic lime; Portland cement; Roman cement and natural fibers. The experimental analysis of the mortars in the fresh state consisted in the determination of the consistence by flow table and bulk density. In the hardened state the tests conducted were: linear and volumetric shrinkage; water absorption capillary coefficient; drying test; dynamic modulus of elasticity by measuring the fundamental resonance frequency; flexural and compressive strengths.