Light transmitting cement-based material (LTCM) as a green material for building

Abstract

In recent years, light-transmitting cement-based materials (LTCM) have become important in the construction of green buildings because these reduce energy consumption for lighting. LTCMs were prepared by adding polymeric optical fibers (POFs) in a high strength self-compacting mortar (SCM). SCM was formulated from Portland cement, fine sand and water reducing admixture following the EFNARC criteria. LTCMs with a constant fiber content (5%) and three fiber diameter (0.75, 1 and 1.5 mm) were prepared by casting fresh SCM into a formwork designed ad hoc to keep the fibers fixed and aligned. Light transmitting performance of LTCM was tested by optical power measures. The effects of fiber diameter and distance between sample and detector on the optical power were evaluated. The compressive strength of hardened SCM reached a value of 69 MPa at an age of 28 days, while the LTCMs maintained sufficient strength for structural purposes. LTCMs are suitable to produce precast blocks and wall panels for application in building facades, signage and decorative art.

Keywords

• self-compacting mortars
• polymeric optical fibers
• translucent concrete
• optical properties
• mechanical properties
• water reducing admixture