Moisture transport properties of lime-hemp concrete determined over the complete moisture range

To determine the durability of a lime-hemp concrete (LHC) wall and its resistance to driving rain, moisture conditions inside the wall have to be modelled. As model input, moisture transport properties were determined. Two LHC mixes were studied. Cup tests provided moisture diffusivity results at relative humidity (RH) values up to 95%. Capillary water uptake tests provided results for the interval 95-100% RH by means of curve fitting and the simulation tool JAM-KAP. A mix containing more lime showed higher moisture diffusivity at relative humidity >95%.