Abstract

Calcined marl was identified as an insulating binder substituent mate-rial for aerogel based mortars. Further synthesis of insulating organo-nanoclays through the incorporation of polyethylene glycol (PEG) or in situ polymerisation of polystyrene (PS) in clays displayed greater promises for further reduction of thermal conductivity independent of the compressive strength, unlike more con-ventional aerogel-incorporated concrete. The organo-nanoclays were characterized by Hot Disk thermal analyzer measurements. The results so far indicated the for-mation of organoclay particles from both ideal systems of bentonite and calcined marl with lowered thermal conductivities. The calcined clay appeared to maintain its binding properties, suitable for gelling excess aerogel together in the concrete matrix. Ultimately, the final hydration mix of aerogel, calcined clay-polymer binder, organo nanoclays and cements is targeted to form novel concretes with re-duced thermal conductivity comparable to existing insulating materials, while maintaining strengths of 20 MPa after 28 days of curing.