In the quest to bolster the longevity and resilience of construction materials, a team of researchers led by Jason Jon Joshua B. Paraguya from the Center for Sustainable Polymers at Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology has made a significant stride. Their work, published in the journal *Scientific Reports* (which translates to *Nature Research Reports*), introduces a novel, eco-friendly approach to enhancing the water resistance and durability of mortar—a critical component in the construction industry.
The study focuses on the development of a coconut oil-based polyurethane-modified mortar, leveraging the inherent hydrophobic properties of coconut oil. This innovation addresses a longstanding challenge in the construction industry: water penetration in mortar structures, which can lead to metal bar corrosion, structural deterioration, and increased maintenance costs.
“Water penetration has been a persistent issue, and traditional surface coatings, while effective, often come with high costs and require frequent maintenance,” explains Paraguya. “Our approach aims to integrate water resistance directly into the mortar mixture, creating a more robust and sustainable solution.”
The researchers investigated various concentrations of coconut oil polyurethane (COPU) to determine the optimal formulation. They found that adding just 2% COPU to the mortar mixture significantly enhanced its hydrophobicity, achieving a water contact angle of 125° compared to 110° for the control sample. This modification also resulted in a remarkable 54% reduction in water absorption and a 40% improvement in compressive strength, from 13.1 MPa to 18.4 MPa.
The implications of this research are profound for the construction and energy sectors. Enhanced water resistance in mortar can lead to longer-lasting structures, reduced maintenance costs, and improved durability. This is particularly relevant for infrastructure projects in coastal or high-humidity areas, where water penetration is a major concern.
“By integrating coconut oil-based polyurethane into mortar, we are not only improving the material’s performance but also promoting sustainable practices,” says Paraguya. “This eco-friendly approach aligns with the growing demand for green building materials and sustainable construction methods.”
The study also highlights the potential for this technology to be applied in other areas, such as protective coatings for pipelines and other energy infrastructure. The enhanced durability and water resistance offered by COPU-modified mortar could significantly extend the lifespan of these critical components, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of sustainable and innovative materials like COPU-modified mortar will play a crucial role in shaping the future of building practices. This research not only advances the field of construction materials but also sets a precedent for future developments in sustainable and durable infrastructure.
In the words of Paraguya, “This is just the beginning. We are excited to explore further applications and collaborations to bring this technology to the market and make a tangible impact on the industry.”