Characterisation of Hemp-Line as a Composite Building Material

Abstract

Hemp-lime is a comparatively novel renewable insulation material in theconstruction industry. Its use was first documented in the 1980’s, however,recent increased interest and the release of popular publications hasresulted in an increased need for scientific investigation into the material.The research conducted in this investigation firstly focussed on furtheringthe empirical characterisation of hemp-lime and its constituents withparticular attention paid to minimising fabrication variables and increasingthe accuracy of final specimen bulk densities. Secondly attempts were madeto quantify the degree of carbon sequestration that occurs as a result of thecarbonation of the lime binder. A total of 196 specimens were fabricated forthe main programme of work.It has been demonstrated that the novel fabrication methodology developedand tested in this investigation allows for reliable and consistent fabricationof specimens with almost identical final bulk densities. An average intrinsicempirical variability of 0.8% was determined for hemp-lime composites.It has been shown that the values of CO2 sequestration varied between 151-192kg/m3 for the current formulated binders and composite bulk densitiesbeing used or considered in the UK construction industry. This resulted in aminimum 100% increase above the lowest estimated sequestration valuefrom previous investigations.Preliminary carbonation constant values for hemp-lime have beendetermined, however, further testing is required to establish definite valuesbased on a wider sample of testing.

Date of Award	31 Dec 2013
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bath
Supervisor	Pete Walker (Supervisor) & Kevin Paine (Supervisor)