Pó de mandacaru como aditivo em argamassa de cimento: efeitos antes e após envelhecimento

Abstract

The construction industry faces environmental challenges due to the high consumption of natural resources and significant waste generation. With the sector's continuous growth, there is a pressing need to develop alternative materials and more sustainable processes. In this context, this study evaluated the use of powdered biopolymer extracted from the mucilage of the Mandacaru cactus as an additive for cement mortar, analyzing its effects on the material's properties in both fresh and hardened states, before and after simulated aging through thermal shock cycles. Tests were conducted to assess consistency, water retention, water absorption, mechanical strength, and durability. Samples, produced with different concentrations of additives—Mandacaru powder and FLUX-40 (a commercial polycarboxylate-based additive)—were classified as R (no additive), and A, B, C, and D, with concentrations of 0.0125%, 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1.0%, respectively. The results indicated that Mandacaru powder demonstrated potential as a plasticizer in cement mortars, influencing the reduction of water absorption, without compromising mechanical resistance and durability. XRD analysis revealed no crystalline structures beyond the hydration phases of cement, with only changes in peak intensity. In this context, it is concluded that Mandacaru powder is a sustainable alternative as an additive for cement mortars, maintaining the material's strength and durability.