Effects of hydrophobic treatment on thermophysical properties of lightweight mortars

The effects of an innovative hydrophobic treatment and moisture content on thermal conductivity of lightweight mortars were investigated. The aim of this study was to provide data on the insulating properties of the above mentioned mortars, that can be used in engineering practice, once properly processed. Various mortars were prepared by mixing Portland cement and/or lime with different granulated aggregates such as Neapolitan tuff, expanded clay or siliceous standard sand. After a curing time of 28 days, a set of mortars was directly tested in terms of thermal conductivity at different moisture content, comparing the results obtained from the corresponding mortars previously submitted to hydrophobic treatment. Finally, the effects of hydrophobic treatment on other physical properties such as water vapour permeability and capillary rise were also investigated.