The thermal properties of mortars modified by the effect of combining polymers and SCMs

The thermal performance of the building materials is relevant to any use of composite materials, especially in relation to constructions where it is desirable to have high specific heat, low thermal conductivity and slight or no decrease of stiffness upon heating. The thermal coefficients of composite mortars made up of mixtures of combining styrene polyacrylic SPA Latex and supplementary cementitious materials SCMs were measured at different ages (7, 14, 28, 60, 90 and 120 days). So, in order to determine the thermal conductivity, the calorific capacity and thermal diffusivity of SCM-modified mortars, it seemed interesting to evaluate the influence of adding the SPA Latex (0.5%, 1% and 2%w) on the properties of these mortars when exposed to a quick thermal conductivity meter based on standard ISO 8302-91. The highest thermal conductivity of 1.51 W.m-1.K-1 was observed with the samples containing only plain cement. It decreased with the increase of SPA latex percentages. The lowest values of thermal coefficients were obtained with the samples prepared with SPA polymer at 2% and SCMs. In this way, the results obtained highlight the beneficial effect of combining SPA polymer and SCM materials as thermal insulation in comparison with other insulation materials. In fact, using SCMs as cement substitutes reduces the energy consumption. These composite mortars address problems related to environmental pollution by CO2 emissions, and can be recommended as materials for energy efficiency in buildings.