Abstract
If sustainability criteria are to be applied properly in the construction sector it is essential to characterize the moisture capacity properties of building materials. This is the first step in studying the influence of moisture in the transmittance of exterior walls and in the occurrence of condensation, and in understanding the associated mechanisms of mechanical and chemical deterioration. Multi-slotted clay blocks are widely used in construction because of the special features entailed by their structure (e.g., better compressive strength and improved thermal and acoustic performance). However, depending on the type of additives used and on the manufacturing process characteristics (pressure of extrusion, drying time and temperature, baking process temperature, etc), moisture capacity properties may vary considerably from one type of material to another. This article determines the moisture capacity of two types of lightened clay made by different manufacturers. Differences are found, and one of them displays behavior not characteristic of clayey materials due to the additives used in its composition.
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