Development and testing of innovative low-processed clay building composites modified with a protein-based biopolymer

OPUS 27

Funding Organization: National Science Centre

Leader: Lublin University of Technology

Partner: Warsaw University of Technology

Project title: Development and testing of innovative low-processed clay building composites modified with a protein-based biopolymer

Agreement number: UMO-2024/53/B/ST8/04308

Project implementation period: 01.04.2025 - 31.03.2028

Principal Investigator (Lublin University of Technology): dr inż. Przemysław Brzyski

Principal Co-investigator (Warsaw University of Technology): dr hab. inż. Piotr Łapka, prof. PW

Project value: 1 823 260,00 PLN

Funds granted for Lublin University of Technology: 824,690,00 PLN

Funds granted for Warsaw University of Technology: 998 570,00 PLN

Abstract: The essence of the project is the development of innovative low-processed composites based on clay, hemp shives and biopolymers based on proteins - casein. The aim is to investigate the influence of the casein admixture on selected mechanical, physical and moisture properties of the developed composite. Materials based on unfired clay are characterized by low strength and lack of water resistance. Additives used to improve strength and reduce water absorption often cause deterioration of other parameters, such as vapor permeability. The admixture of casein is not yet well recognized as a modifier of building materials. It is planned to develop a procedure for processing this admixture and a method of combining it with other composite components in order to obtain the best possible results. A variable amount of admixture will be used, as well as a variable amount of water. The influence of a variable amount of shives on the effectiveness of thermal insulation and sorption properties will also be examined. Selected properties of fresh mixtures and hardened composite will be examined. Measurements of consistency, viscosity, air content and retention capacity of fresh mortars are planned. The hardened composite will be tested for compressive, split tensile and flexural strength at various humidity levels. Physical and hygro-thermal properties will be tested, such as shrinkage, vapor permeability, sorption curves, specific heat, thermal conductivity, and capillary rise. The microstructure of the composites will be characterized by pore size distribution by mercury porosimetry, phase composition by XRD and scanning electron microscope observations. The adhesion of plaster mortars to the substrate made of the developed composite will also be determined. Selected physical parameters examined as part of the project will be used to perform a numerical simulation of the hygrothermal external wall made of the developed composite. The simulations will be confronted with laboratory measurements of dynamic phenomena related to the transport of heat and moisture in an innovative research stand. Mathematical models will be developed based on the obtained parameters.