Behaviour assessment of ready-to-use mortar with waterproofing treatment with crystallizing admixtures

Abstract The presence of water in coating rendering mortar is the main cause of the onset and dissemination of pathological problems, compromising durability and the surface protection of walls under harsh weather. On the other hand, waterproofing treatments as crystallising admixtures are designed to create a barrier against water penetration. This research study assessed 36 hours’ and 72 hours’ ready-to-use mortars, with and without the application of crystallising admixtures (liquid and powder), in order to evaluate their behaviour in the presence of humidity in the liquid and vapour states. The mechanical strength and permeability were evaluated in hardened mortars. The conclusion was that the 36 h mortars had the best results. The treatment with crystallising admixtures reduced water absorption and increased mechanical strength. The liquid crystallising admixture proved to be more appropriate, since the powder crystallising admixture decreased vapour permeability, which causes damage to the coating.