Influence of Waste Plastic Aggregate and Water-Repellent Additive on the Properties of Lightweight Magnesium Oxychloride Cement Composite

Featured Application The results obtained in the paper can find use in the design and development of low-energy and low-carbon construction composites with the incorporation of waste expanded polypropylene. The developed green materials possess good thermal insulation function, minimum water absorption, sufficient permeability for water vapor, and resistance against the harmful water action. The mechanical strength of the lightened composites is acceptable for non-bearing purposes but if required, it can be further improved to meet the technical requirements of construction practice. Abstract The aim of the present study is to improve the thermal and hygric performance of magnesium oxychloride (MOC) cement composites by the incorporation of waste plastic-based aggregate and the use of the inner and surface hydrophobic agents. The crushed waste expanded polypropylene particles were used as a full replacement of natural silica sand. The aggregate properties were evaluated in terms of their physical and thermal parameters. The caustic calcined magnesite was studied by SEM, XRF, and XRD spectroscopy. The MOC cement composites were characterized by SEM/EDS, XRD, and FT-IR spectroscopy and measurement of their structural properties, strength parameters, thermal conductivity, and volumetric heat capacity. Assessment of water- and water vapor transport properties was also conducted. The results show significantly improved thermal parameters of MOC cement composite containing expanded polypropylene (EPP) as aggregate and indicate high efficiency of surface hydrophobic agent (impregnation) as a barrier against the transport of liquid and gaseous moisture. The resulting lightweight EPP-MOC cement composite with improved thermal insulation function and suitable mechanical properties can be used to produce thermal insulation floors, ceilings, or wall panels reducing the operational energy demand of buildings.