Characterization of a bio-based concrete using virgin cork aggregate

Abstract

The field of construction, like other field besides, faces new challenges, particularly that relating to reduction of the environmental impact and the improvement of the thermal and energy performances. To this end, the work presented in this article concerns bio-based concrete which complies with the new regulatory provisions inherent in cementitious materials. This is a concrete where 25% of the mineral volume is replaced by the same plant volume (male cork) in the dry state and immersed for 2 hours in water while adding 10% of filler. A first experimental campaign was carried out in the laboratory in order to identify the rheological behavior of the composite in the fresh state and the mechanical behavior in the hardened state. The results showed that this material can be used in many civil engineering applications.