Investigation on the performance and durability of treated hemp concrete with water repellent

Abstract

Hemp concrete is an organic based building material. Hemp concrete principal weakness point is the mechanical performance such as the compressive strength but the lack of information concerning the durability performance of this material can also be an explanation for the professional’s reluctance to use bio-based concrete. This study focused on the effects of aggregate treatments, water repellent and two different binders. The mechanicals performance such as the compressive strength at 7, 14 and 28 days were done. The results shows that with the same density treated samples get a lower strength in compression. Then hydraulic performance was tested with the capillarity test and highlighted the great decrease of sorption coefficient on treated samples. Finally the durability performance tests included the full water immersion test, and the carbonation test in accelerated chamber. Weathering results are better for treated sample, which are less absorbent and were less destructive for specimens. Treated samples carbonated slightly more slowly than no-treated ones.