Effects of thermal cycling accelerated aging on PET-Modified rendering mortars

a physico-mechanical analysis

Abstract

This study evaluated rendering mortars with 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% fine aggregate replacement by polyethylene terephthalate (PET) flakes, subjected to accelerated aging through thermal cycling. Properties such as fluidity, water retention, immersion absorption, capillary absorption, vapor permeability, compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and dynamic modulus of elasticity were analyzed. The mean spreading diameter was highest for the A10% mix. Both capillary and immersion water absorption were highest for the A20% mix. Non-aged samples exhibited higher vapor permeability. Compressive strength was highest for the A15% mix, while the highest ultrasonic pulse velocity was observed in the PET-free sample. It was concluded that PET contents of up to 10% provide a balance between mechanical performance and durability. This study contributes to the application of recycled PET in rendering mortars.