Effects of paraffin additives, as phase change materials, on the behavior of a traditional lime mortar

Abstract

This study refers to the inclusion of phase change materials (PCMs) in porous building materials as an alternative means of improving their thermal behavior, assessing the changes caused in their physical–mechanical and durability properties. Specifically, an organic paraffin wax was selected for direct incorporation into lime mortars using different concentrations by weight. The results show that PCMs improve the thermal properties of the mortar while reducing its accessible porosity. This increases the mortars’ resistance to water and soluble salts. However, excessive PCM content causes stresses within the mortar that can jeopardize its structure.