Abstract

This work aims to deepen the knowledge of systems formed by cement and thermochromic vanadium dioxide particles. Cement paste specimens with 9 % addition of monoclinic VO2 particles show a significant delay of the hydration at early ages with respect to plain cement specimens, seemingly due to the partial inhibition of hydrates precipitation during the first 24 h of reaction. Upon further hydration, a re-activation of the hydration reactions gives rise to a higher mechanical strength and a more refined pore structure in the paste with VO2 addition at 28 days, attributed to the enhanced formation of C–S–H. The stability of the VO2 particles within the matrix is confirmed along the hydration process and provides the cement paste with the associated thermochromic behavior that is demonstrated by a change in the reflection in the near infrared wavelength range upon cooling from 70 °C. The results confirm the viability of producing VO2-based thermochromic cementitious materials for building envelopes. The next steps in their development should target the enhancement of the solar reflectance modulation in order to produce a significant impact in the energy efficiency of buildings and the urban overheating effect.

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