Abstract
Knowing the properties of vernacular materials is crucial to heritage conservation and to develop innovative solutions. Reed, considered to be a carbon-neutral and a carbon dioxide sink material, has been used for centuries for diverse uses. Its high availability and properties made it a popular building material, including in Portuguese vernacular architecture. An experimental investigation was conducted to evaluate the physical performance, thermal performance, and durability of the reed found in Portugal since the characterisation of this material was not found in previous studies. The influence of geometric characteristics and the presence of nodes on these properties were also analysed, and the results showed that they are irrelevant. The studied reeds were found to have an adequate thermal performance to be used as thermal insulation. Their thermal resistance (1.8 m2·°C/W) and thermal conductivity (0.06 W/m·°C) are under the requirements defined by Portuguese regulations on thermal insulation materials. Overall, the physical characteristics (moisture content, density, and retraction) are compatible to its use in the construction. Concerning durability, there was only a trend for mould growth in particular environments. The results provide valuable data to be considered in the development of new construction products based on this natural and renewable material. Additionally, considering the studied samples, the reed found in Portugal has characteristics suitable for use as a building material, especially as a thermal insulation material.
Highlights
Reed has been used for thousands of years in diverse uses by many cultures [1,2,3].The reed has been a conventional construction material since ancient times
Reed is considered to a carbon-neutral raw material and a carbon dioxide sink, and it has been used for centuries for diverse uses
An experimental study was carried out to characterise the giant reed (Arundo donax) that is most common in Portugal
Summary
Reed has been used for thousands of years in diverse uses by many cultures [1,2,3]. The reed has been a conventional construction material since ancient times. Concerning the use of reed as an element for thermal insulation in walls, the walls of palheiros, and the tabique technique are important examples of Portuguese vernacular architecture using reeds. Since the properties of natural materials can be site-dependent [29,30] and no characterisation of reed from Portugal was found in previous studies, this research fills a gap in this area of knowledge, assuming an innovative position. The characterisation results of Portuguese reed are presented and discussed This experimental investigation assessed the physical and thermal behaviour of reed and its durability, aiming to produce knowledge that can be used to design new solutions for more sustainable construction and the conservation of vernacular buildings
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