Eco-efficiency of plasters for rehabilitation and new buildings

Abstract

A review of the current state of art for air-lime, gypsum and earth based plasters for rehabilitation and new buildings, in terms of eco-efficiency, is presented. These mortars belong to Portuguese traditional architecture, responding to compatibility criteria most of the time. This factor, combined with a possible positive response to eco-efficiency evaluation, would bring interest for their application in rehabilitation as well as in new construction. To assess eco-efficiency of plasters, the considered factors are linked to the environmental impact of these products and to their contribution for occupants well-being. Some qualitative results concerning embodied energy for these mortars in a “cradle to gate” approach analysis are shown. The lack of a common, standardized and shared procedure for this evaluation seems an evidence, above all when the attempt of comparing results from different studies is made. Furthermore, common and specific characteristics mostly related to contribution for indoor comfort conditions are presented, as indicators of technical efficiency of those plasters. The potential for behaving as moisture regulators and passive removal materials not only affect users, but can also have an important role in energy savings. Lastly, durability is considered a key factor of eco-efficiency mainly to meet the purpose of minimising exploitation of raw materials. For this reason it is important to consider protective treatments or finishing system, for improving durability, always keeping in mind all the elements of the equation.