Effect of a mixed-in crystallization inhibitor on the properties of hydraulic mortars

<abstract> <p>Porous building materials are often subjected to damage due salt crystallization. In recent years, the addition of crystallization inhibitors in lime-based mortar, has shown promising results improving durability this material against decay. Lime-based mortars have low mechanical properties and slow setting. They replaced with hydraulic binders overcome these limitations. However, effect is still unknown. Incorporation would widen application field new technology. research, possibility develop mixed-in sodium ferrocyanide, an inhibitor chloride crystallization, explored. As essential first step, influence on investigated. Two common types binders, natural lime (NHL) ordinary Portland cement (CEM I), were studied; was added different amounts (0%, 0.1% 1% by binder weight) during mortar (and paste) preparation. Relevant paste properties, fresh (hydration, workability, setting time) hardened (mechanical strength, elastic modulus, pore size distribution, water absorption) state, assessed using several complementary methods techniques. The indicate that ferrocyanide does not alter studied both NHL CEMI-based pastes. These for further development improved respect decay.</p> </abstract>