Use of expanded polystyrene waste as a substitute for natural sand in coating mortars: evaluation of physical and mechanical properties

Abstract

The incorporation of waste in the production of materials for civil construction has been the subject of studies for some time. In this context, coating mortars containing expanded polystyrene (EPS) waste arise as an alternative to replace natural aggregates. The main objective of this study was to develop coating mortar with EPS waste as a substitute for natural sand, using different percentages of substitution (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50%). The characterization of the specimens was carried out through tests of compressive strength, flexural tensile strength, tensile bond strength, density in the fresh state and density in the hardened state (wet and dry), air void, water absorption, shrinkage and thermal conductivity. The results showed that the material met the standards in relation to strength properties, adherence for internal coatings and presented low thermal conductivity compared to the reference material.