Sustainable bio-based earth mortar with self-healing capacity

Abstract

The paper describes hygrothermal, mechanical properties and self-healing capacity of a sustainable bio-based mortar repair system for earth construction. There is currently limited characterisation of materials that directly compare earth, bio-fibres and self-healing behaviour. Both prismatic and 0.1x0.1m 2 samples were cast with plain mixes, saw mill residue (SMR), straw, wool and wood pellets -executing both structural and hygrothermal experimentation gives an indication of the performance and durability of the samples. The bio-based agent added to the bio-based composite consists of bacteria. Adding bio-based agent to an earth matrix with SMR, straw and wood pellets has promising rules for hygric properties, as initial water adsorption and absorption is lessened. Thermal conductivity is reduced from 0.32W/m.K to 0.23W/m.K when bio-based agent is combined into earth-based mix design.