Development of a novel and ecologic mortar based on nanoparticles of lime and organic additives for the repair of Built Heritage and new construction

Project Information

NANOMORT

Grant agreement ID: 893762

DOI

10.3030/893762

Project closed

EC signature date 26 February 2020

Start date 1 September 2020

End date 21 December 2023

Funded under

• EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Total cost

€ 172 932,48

EU contribution

€ 172 932,48

Coordinated by

UNIVERSIDAD DE GRANADA
Spain

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - NANOMORT (Development of a novel and ecologic mortar based on nanoparticles of lime and organic additives for the repair of Built Heritage and new construction)

Reporting period: 2020-09-01 to 2022-08-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The NANOMORT project sought to address a critical challenge in the conservation of historic building structures. Traditional lime mortars, commonly used for repairs, often exhibit limitations in terms of mechanical properties and durability. The need for an innovative solution that enhances the effectiveness of mortar in preserving historical structures prompted this research.

Preserving cultural heritage is essential for maintaining a connection to our past and fostering a sense of identity. Historic buildings, with their architectural significance, represent tangible links to our cultural legacy. The use of lime-based mortars in restoration is widespread, making improvements in their properties crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of historical structures. The NANOMORT project, by developing advanced mortars, aimed to contribute to the conservation and sustainable management of built heritage, thereby enriching societal understanding and appreciation of history.

The overarching goal of the project was to pioneer the development of an innovative mortar by incorporating lime nanoparticles and additives. The specific scientific objectives can be summarized as follows:

- Objective 1: Develop Nanolime Synthesis: Establish a robust methodology for synthesizing lime nanoparticles
- Objective 2: Study Nanolime Properties and Additive Effects: Investigate the properties of nanolime synthesized alone and in the presence of additives.
- Objective 3: Define Optimal Nanolime Mortar Mix: Explore the feasibility of an innovative mortar by studying the nanolime/aggregate ratio.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

Overview of Main Results Achieved:
- WP1 - Comprehensive Characterization of Nanolime: In this initial phase, we extensively characterized lime nanoparticles synthesized through anion exchange resins. Employing a multi-technique approach, including TEM, DLS, XRD, and BET, we identified limitations in the reactivity of the nanolime particles produced using the original method.
- WP2 - Development of a Novel Synthesis Strategy: Recognizing the limitations observed in WP1, we pursued an innovative strategy in WP2. By introducing additives and optimizing synthesis conditions, we successfully produced Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles with enhanced reactivity, smaller sizes, and higher carbonation rates compared to the original route and commercial products. The nanoparticles exhibited superior consolidation performance for wall painting preservation, promising advancements for potential large-scale production.
- WP3 - Investigation of Mortar Properties: Building on results from WP1 and WP2, WP3 focused on evaluating the efficacy of lime nanoparticles as a binding agent in mortar production. Initial mortar mixes exhibited low mechanical properties, leading to further research with additives. This culminated in the development of a promising composite showcasing high cohesion and shortened setting times. This innovative approach holds great potential for the restoration of historic structures.

Impact on Researcher's Career:
The MSCA fellow's career has seen significant growth through the NANOMORT project. Scientific achievements include advanced skills in nanoparticle characterization and composite analysis, and expanding expertise in techniques such as TEM, XRD, SEM, MIP, and more. Furthermore, the fellow has developed proficiency in project management, presentation skills, and scientific writing. These accomplishments played a pivotal role in securing a prestigious Ramon y Cajal Scholarship at the University of Barcelona.

Results and Dissemination:
NANOMORT's outcomes, detailed earlier, significantly impact heritage conservation and construction materials. The novel synthesis strategy in WP2, addressing reactivity issues, holds promise for large-scale production. The innovative mortar composite in WP3, boasting enhanced mechanical properties and quick setting time, marks a breakthrough in restoration practices. Findings have been disseminated through international conferences, workshops, and publications, fostering collaboration between academia and industries in heritage conservation.

Exploitation and Transition:
NANOMORT results have reached diverse channels, contributing to academic knowledge and fostering collaborations with heritage conservation and construction industries. The MSCA fellow's expanded professional network enhances dissemination and potential applications. As the project concludes, transitioning to the Ramon y Cajal Scholarship at the University of Barcelona presents opportunities to further explore and apply innovative strategies for societal benefit in heritage preservation.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

Progress beyond state of the art:

1) Nanolime Particle Characterization:
The NANOMORT project significantly advanced nanolime particle characterization, employing an interdisciplinary and multi-technique approach. Innovative synthesis methods, surpassing traditional approaches, offered crucial insights into the limitations of the original route. Concluding the project, detailed lime nanoparticle characterization sets the stage for future research, highlighting the need for further innovative strategies to address challenges in low reactivity.

2) Improved Reactivity of Nanolime Particles:
Exploring strategies to enhance nanolime particle reactivity, NANOMORT achieved a significant leap beyond the state of the art. The novel production strategy resulted in superior Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles compared to traditional methods. With the innovative strategy established in WP2, the expected results include insights into further scaling up the synthesis process for major productions, with potential applications beyond the laboratory in advancements for large-scale production and wall painting preservation.

3) Innovations in Mortar Development with Nanoparticles:
The exploration of lime nanoparticles as a binding agent for mortar development exceeded current standards, addressing limitations in initial mixes. The innovative approach showcased in WP3, expected to be further explored under the Ramon y Cajal Fellowship at the University of Barcelona, holds potential applications in the restoration and preservation of historic buildings, particularly in grouting strategies.

4) Innovations with Implications for Industry and Society:
NANOMORT's outcomes have significant implications for industry and society, enhancing the structural integrity of historic buildings and contributing to the preservation of socio-cultural identity in heritage items. Anticipated impacts include the transferability of research outcomes to society through professional engagements, talks, and broader societal implications, promoting cultural heritage preservation and sustainable practices in the construction and restoration industries.

5) Socio-Economic Impact and Wider Societal Implications:
The socio-economic impact of the NANOMORT project extends beyond the laboratory, potentially revolutionizing heritage conservation and construction materials industries. The developed composite mortar, with enhanced mechanical properties and rapid setting time, offers avenues for more efficient and sustainable restoration practices. Beyond economic considerations, the project profoundly enriches the societal consciousness by safeguarding historical structures, contributing to cultural identity, and aligning with global efforts for environmentally friendly construction materials and conservation methods

graphical abstract