Influence of Lightweight Fillers on the Performance of Cement-Based Skim Coat

Lightweight fillers are used in dry-mixed building mortars in order to improve thermal insulation properties, yield, and workability. In the case of thin layer products, used as a finishing layer, reduced thermal conductivity coefficient enables to restrain of water vapor condensation on walls – which inhibits mold growth. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of 4 types of lightweight fillers on the performance of cement-based skim coat – with emphasis on the economic aspect. Formulas reflecting typical commercial products were used. The dosage of different components -such as expanded perlite, glass and polymeric bubbles or expanded glass – was optimized for sufficient yield and workability, keeping the constant price of 1 kg of the final product. Mechanical parameters, capillary absorption coefficient, and thermal conductivity coefficient were determined. Observations by Scanning Electron Microscope revealed poor incorporation of polymer microspheres in the cement matrix, leading to loss of mechanical strength. With the addition of expanded glass, an increase of flexural and compressive strength thanks to the pozzolanic reaction was observed. Glass bubbles were found the most effective additive.