Study of the physicochemical and mechanical compatibility of expanded cork with a cement matrix based on limestone sand

Abstract : The objective of this work is to study the compatibility of expanded cork with a cement matrix based on limestone sand. This involves analyzing the effect of cork on the microstructure of the produced concrete and on its physicochemical characteristics. Moreover, the elastic compatibility between the cork aggregates with the matrix is studied by comparing the concretes lightened by the cork aggregates with the control concrete. The results obtained show that structurally the cork aggregates have perfect adhesion with the matrix. The incorporation of cork aggregates does not affect the hydration except for a high volume dosage above 70%. The mechanical behavior of the concrete produced shows a considerable difference in compressive strengths and elastic modulus between the control concrete and the lightweight concrete.