Influence of brick and mortar properties on bioreceptivity of masonry: Results from experimental research

B. Lubelli*, J. Moerman, R. Esposito, K. Mulder

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

9 Citations (Scopus)
122 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

The effect of mortar and brick properties on the growth of ivy-leaved toadflax (Cymbalaria muralis) and yellow corydalis (Pseudofumaria lutea) has been investigated in laboratory. Different mortar compositions were designed and tested in combination with two different bricks. Highly porous bricks and mortars showed good bioreceptivity; mortars with lime-trass and, in lower extent, those with natural hydraulic lime binder, gave the best results in terms of bioreceptivity. The addition of vermiculite to the mortar was beneficial for plant growth. The brick-mortar combinations most favourable for plant growth were those with estimated low compressive and flexural bond strength values. Proposals are advanced for obtaining a compromise between mechanical strength and bioreceptivity.

Original languageEnglish
Article number121036
Number of pages12
JournalConstruction and Building Materials
Volume266
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

Keywords

  • Binder
  • Bioreceptivity
  • Brick
  • Mechanical strength
  • Mortar
  • Porosity

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