Study on Innovative Weathering Course Composites and Secondary Roofing System for Enhanced Thermal Insulation of Flat Roofs

Abstract

Thermal insulation of concrete terrace slab is necessary for imparting comfort to the inhabitants. Methods of thermal insulation / weathering course systems employed conventionally over the past three decades are either lack in strength or durability despite of not offering required thermal comfort. This investigation assess the performance of thermal insulation systems such as secondary roofing, cool tile weathering course, clay tile weathering course, light weight aggregate weathering course and aerocon aggregate weathering course in terms of its strength, durability and thermal insulation properties for use in flat terrace slabs. newline Strength studies conducted includes compressive strength test for weathering course composites and flexural strength for secondary roofing ferrocement panels. Durability tests such as water absorption, chloride penetration and rapid chloride penetration test were conducted on polymer modified mortar which is a main component of a weathering course system. Thermal insulation performance of weathering course composites and secondary roofing system was done theoretically and also experimentally in laboratory and field conditions. The relevant tests were conducted as per the Indian / ASTM standards / guidelines provided by premier research organization. The test results of thermal insulation systems were compared with unprotected control concrete slab. From the strength studies, it is found that cool tile weathering course offered similar compressive strength as compared to control concrete slab and aerocon aggregate weathering course found with 40% reduction in compressive strength. Clay tile and light weight aggregate weathering courses offered inferior compressive strength which may be due to poor resistance offered by the topping course. Ferrocement panels made with single layer crimped wire mesh exhibited significantly improved flexural strength, ductility and energy absorption capacity. newline Durability studies on polymer modified mortar exhibits appreciable reduction in current develop