Microstructural analysis of bio-based PCM-enhanced lime mortars: Durability and energy efficiency for sustainable buildings

The development of energy-efficient and sustainable building materials is crucial in reducing energy consumption and environmental impact in the construction sector. This study presents a novel approach by integrating a bio-based microencapsulated phase change material (PCM) into air lime-based mort...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Rubio-Aguinaga, A. (Andrea)|||/items/a9224977-7125-4944-9cca-5e21c7cd33f3, Kyriakou, L. (Loucas)|||/items/e3bee79c-67d7-4ec6-859b-21acbfe31687, Fernandez-Alvarez, J.M. (José María)|||/items/1dea5bde-978e-46db-8871-8d426cbb52c8, Navarro-Blasco, I. (Iñigo)|||/items/733b109b-1074-49e9-8952-70ec6928cc54, Alvarez-Galindo, J.I. (José Ignacio)|||/items/c88ef755-513c-4ff3-bbff-44aadbf32204
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Universidad de Navarra
Repositorio:Dadun. Depósito Académico Digital de la Universidad de Navarra
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:dadun.unav.edu:10171/116257
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/10171/116257
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Bio-based phase change materials
Lime
Microstructure
Durability
Cyclability
Thermal efficiency
Descripción
Sumario:The development of energy-efficient and sustainable building materials is crucial in reducing energy consumption and environmental impact in the construction sector. This study presents a novel approach by integrating a bio-based microencapsulated phase change material (PCM) into air lime-based mortars, aiming to enhance thermal performance while ensuring durability and mechanical integrity. Unlike conventional PCM-enhanced mortars, this research emphasizes the use of renewable, biodegradable PCMs derived from agricultural sources, reducing reliance on fossil-based alternatives. The optimized formulations were designed to function as rendering mortars, balancing workability, adhesion, and durability for application in both modern and historic buildings. A thorough microstructural investigation through SEM and MIP revealed that controlled PCM dosages (5–10 %) preserved matrix cohesion, whereas higher PCM contents (20 %) led to increased porosity. Thermal performance assessments, including DSC and hotbox experiments, confirmed the effectiveness of the PCM-enhanced mortars in regulating temperature fluctuations and improving energy efficiency. Additionally, durability testing demonstrated the superior resistance of PCM-modified mortars to freeze-thaw cycles and salt crystallization, while cyclability analyses confirmed their long-term thermal stability over multiple phase transitions. These findings establish bio-based PCM-enhanced lime mortars as a resilient, eco-friendly solution for sustainable construction, contributing to climate-responsive design and energy-efficient buildings.