DIATHONITE DEUMIX. Pre-mixed, eco-friendly, cork-based plaster for the renovation of walls subject to rising and penetrating dampness

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1 DIATHONITE DEUMIX Pre-mixed, eco-friendly, cork-based plaster for the renovation of walls subject to rising and penetrating dampness

2 Dampness in walls The causes Moisture is one of the main problems with older properties, the most common being rising damp. A high proportion of older buildings are affected by rising damp to some degree or another. The most common source of moisture in the base of the walls of buildings is from defective ground and surface drainage due to a combination of such factors as rising ground levels, the failure of ground drainage systems, and the increased use of concrete or finishes around buildings without consideration of drainage slopes Capillary rising damp Moisture, naturally present in the ground, rises inside the walls by capillary action. Ground water contains soluble salts that over time can accumulate within the masonry. When evaporation occurs within the material, salts can be deposited within the pores. The expanding salt crystals in these locations may result in fractures forming in the material and spalling of the surface. 2 Wind driven rain If not properly protected with a water-repellent finish, the façades can absorb rainwater that, once inside the masonry, can contribute to the deterioration of materials, heat loss and the appearance of stains and mould. 3 1 Condensation The water vapour naturally present in indoor environments will condensate on cold wall such as to exposed elevations or to walls of solid construction, thereby increasing the amount of moisture inside the masonry. 2

3 Dampness in walls The problems The presence of moisture inside the walls is not only an "aesthetic problem", but if not properly addressed it can jeopardise the structural stability and the insulation of the walls with time. Physical damage Moisture in bricks and render can freeze during the winter months and cause cracking and spalling of the bricks. Saturated salts can weaken the walls over time. The disintegration of materials, over time, is likely to result in the wall no longer being weather tight. Aesthetic damage Debonding of plaster, erosion of the mortar between bricks, swelling of the paint. Deterioration of the surface of the wall due to the crystallisation of salts. Appearance of saltpetre, mould and efflorescence. Economic damage A wet wall is a poorly insulated wall: heat loss is increased. Increase in interstitial condensation due to cold walls. Increased costs for winter heating. Health issues Formation of mould that creates an unhealthy environment. More cases of allergic reactions and respiratory problems. The high moisture content, in combination with the cold walls, increases the feeling of living discomfort. 3

4 Diathonite Deumix What it is Demonstration tests Diasen undertook the first series of tests on cork based plaster as early as The aim of our research was to obtain a unique product that would have the best thermal, dehumidifying, sound absorbent and long lasting qualities (when exposed to cold/ heat and salt) with easy application. Durability of Diathonite All the materials used to produce Diathonite have a life-span of centuries; archaeological findings have even brought to light remains of Roman houses dating back to as far as 2000 years ago, which were insulated with cork. The diatomaceous earth and clay, which form the basis of our product, have been accumulated in deposits for thousands of years on our planet. Binder based on natural hydraulic lime Cork Technical-physical analysis of components Cork: the decision to use cork was based on its ability to perform as a finished material, adaptable to, and therefore efficient for, new construction developments. This material is non-toxic, biologically pure, stable, waterproofing, breathable, resistant, thermally inert, electrically neutral and non-deformable. It has a good mechanical resistance, low combustibility and excellent acoustic performances. Clay: it is a natural porous and light material. It has a good thermal inertia and a good compression resistance, it is highly breathable and moisture resistant. Natural hydraulic lime NHL 5: it is a natural hydraulic binder with high breathability; it is an excellent thermal insulation and it is resistant to thermal shocks. It has an excellent adhesion on any kind of support. Diatomaceous earth: this is a naturally occurring mineral, formed through the accumulation of organic material in the ocean floor in prehistoric times. When the water receded, deposits were distributed in various parts of the earth. Due to its high level of porosity (85%) per volume, diatomaceous earth can absorb liquid of up to one and a half time its weight. Eco friendly additives: organically obtained, they enable the mix to amalgamate, making it more malleable and easier to apply. They give rise to the formation of micro cells, which maintain a high level of permeability to water vapour and increase the thermal resistance of the binder. Fibers: fibers are easily dispersed in the matrix constituting a homogeneous material able to counteract the plastic shrinkage and the formation of micro-cracks, consequently increasing its resistance. They give mechanical resistance, a perfect stability over time and they do not release toxic residues Fibers Clay Cavernous cells Section of Diathonit (200% magnification) Diatomaceous earth / 2. Cork / 3. Clay / 4. Natural hydraulic lime 4

5 Diathonite Deumix The dehumidifying system Diasen dehumidifying system involves the use of products that can completely and permanently resolve problems related to high level of humidity within the masonry. As shown below, the full composition of the system varies depending on the degree and type of moisture and the type of intervention required. Retaining wall Watstop Presence of salt efflorescence Diathonite Rinzaffo Absence of salt efflorescence Direct Application DIATHONITE DEUMIX + Skim coat ARGACEM External finish Plasterpaint Colored Argacem Colored Internal finish Limepaint C.W.C. Stop Condense Diathonite Rinzaffo Pre-mixed mortar based on natural hydraulic lime and selected mineral aggregates to use as a treatment on walls against salts. Thanks to the presence of a natural active ingredient, Diathonite Rinzaffo blocks the passage of salts while permitting the passage of moisture, which can subsequently be eliminated using Diathonite Deumix. Diathonite Deumix Natural dehumidifying plaster, based on lime NHL 5, cork, clay and diathomaceous earth. It dries out the wall by absorbing and letting evaporate the humidity in the wall. Diathonite Deumix is the only dehumidifying plaster that combines dehumidification with thermal insulation, without being affected by interstitial condensation. Watstop Vapour barrier for underground walls damaged by the deteriorating counter-thrust action of moisture. Used to prepare the surface for the application of Diathonite Rinzaffo or Diathonite Deumix, completing the cycle of dehumidification in cases of intervention on retaining walls or partially-underground walls. 5

6 Diathonite Deumix How does it work? Diasen dehumidifying system, thanks to the special characteristics of the materials used, can permanently solve any problem related to the presence of moisture in the walls. Rather than encapsulating moisture within the wall, Diasen system is fully breathable and hygroscopic hence it is able to absorb and release moisture without being damaged. Diathonite Deumix Diathonite Rinzaffo 1 H 2 O SALTS 2 3 Damp wall Drying the walls Moisture present inside the masonry, coming into contact with the dehumidifying system is rapidly absorbed and transported outwards. This is the beginning of the drying out process which continues over time. The integrity of the system remains unchanged thanks to the porosity of the material. Protection from salts Diathonite Rinzaffo effectively blocks the passage of salts, only allowing the penetration of moisture. As a result of osmosis, the salts are reabsorbed by the masonry, thus preventing the saturation of the porosity of the plaster. Evaporation of moisture The combined action of the porous structure, the high breathability and the fast capillary absorbency of Diathonite Deumix guarantess the dehumidification of the wall. 6

7 Diathonite Deumix Physical-technical data DIATHONITE DEUMIX 0068 CPR 033/2012 UNI-EN Specification for mortar for masonry Part 1: Rendering and plastering mortar BREATHABILITY Walls free to breathe. μ=4 THERMAL INSULATION Limits the formation of surface condensation and contributes to energy savings. REACTION TO FIRE Does not burn nor emits smoke. λ 0,080 W/mK Euroclass A1 CAPILLARY WATER ABSORPTION Category W0. Quick moisture removal. Compression resistance High resistance, durability and stability over time. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY 100% natural materials. LEED credits. Suitable for historic restoration and green building. 0,63 Kg/m2min0.5 3,11 N/mm2 Confers LEED credits LEED - Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Diathonite Deumix is an eco-friendly product, because it is formulated with non dangerous material for the environment and safe for human health, both during application and after its complete curing. For this reason, it contributes to obtain LEED credits according to Green Building Council certification protocols. Standard LEED for New Construction & Major Renovation, v Thematic Area Energy & Atmosphere Materials & Resources Indoor Environmental Quality 7 Credit Credits EAp2 - Mimimum energy performance Compulsory EAc1 - Optimize Energy Performance From 1 to 19 MRc2 - Construction Waste Management From 1 to 2 MRc4 - Recycled Content From 1 to 2 MRc5 - Regional Materials From 1 to 2 MRc6 - Rapidly Renewable Materials 1 QIc3.2 - Construction Indoor Air Quality Management Plan Before Occupancy 1 QIc4.2 - Low Emitting Materials - Paints and Coatings 1

8 Diathonite Deumix Features and benefits Efficient and durable dehumidification Diathonite Deumix enables the permanent dehumidification of any wall affected by capillary rising damp, upgrading the appearance of the façade and walls. Thermal insulation and energy saving The good thermal characteristics of Diathonite Deumix increase energy savings : it insulates efficiently from cold and heat, providing an aesthetic and functional restoration of the masonry. Effective against all kind of dampness Diathonite Deumix does not only resolve the problem of capillary rising damp: its thermal properties prevent the formation of surface condensation. Moreover, its thermal properties are not affected by potential interstitial condensation. CE and WTA safety certificates Diathonite Deumix, Diathonite Rinzaffo and Watstop have the CE marking in accordance with the UNI-EN and UNI-EN standards and satisfy WTA requirements for mortars and plasters used to restore and dehumidify buildings. Natural and eco-friendly solution Diathonite Deumix contains 100% natural materials such as cork, clay and natural hydraulic lime NHL 5. It confers LEED credits, it is VOC free,, its use is safe for health and the environment. 8

9 Diathonite Deumix Features and benefits Resistance and stability Diathonite Deumix is strong and flexible: it is not susceptible to cracking, can be used both indoors and outdoors, does not require reinforcing mesh, is incombustible and does not burn or emit smoke. Indoor wellness Diathonite Deumix guarantees maximum living comfort: warmer and dryer spaces, healthy relative humidity level thanks to its hygroscopic properties and the elimination of surface and interstitial condensation. Healthiness of environments Diathonite Deumix makes spaces healthier: improves air quality to reduce allergies and respiratory diseases, eliminates odours caused by damp walls, prevents mould formation due to bacteriostatic and anti-mould properties. Compatible with historic restoration and sustainable housing Diathonite Deumix is made of natural hydraulic lime NHL 5 and is thus compatible with all historic building restorations under supervisory control. In the same way, it can be used for the construction and restoration of sustainable housing and green buildings. Light solution Diathonite Deumix is 3 times lighter than traditional dehumidifying plaster and so reduces the overall weight of the wall. It reduces also transportation costs. 9

10 Application fields Dehumidification without salt efflorescence Argacem Diathonite Deumix Dehumidification and thermal insulation CE and LEED certified solution Dehumidification with salt efflorescence Mechanical resistance Argacem Diathonite Deumix Healthy living comfort and healthy environment Diathonite Rinzaffo 10

11 Application fields Dehumidification from inside of partly-underground walls Argacem Diathonite Deumix Diathonite Rinzaffo Watstop ELIMINATES both rising damp and the formation of condensation Compatible with historic restoration and green building IT DOES NOT BURN NOR EMITS SMOKE Dehumidification from inside of retaining walls Argacem Light solution for all types of walls Diathonite Deumix Watstop 11

12 Case study Convento de Jesus - Setúbal - Portugal Founded in 1490, Convento de Jesus is the most famous example of the "Manueline" style, the Portuguese version of the better-known Gothic style. The property has been given World Heritage status by UNESCO. Since 2013 it has undergone major renovation to return it to its former splendour. Diathonite Deumix, thanks to its light weight has enabled the application of considerable thicknesses without overloading the existing structure and resolving problems related to the strong presence of moisture and salt infiltration. 12

13 Case study "Palazzo Tibertelli" - Ferrara Diathonite Deumix was used in the renovation of "Palazzo Tibertelli", a building in the historic centre of Ferrara, which has been converted from a convent into a residential structure. Diathonite Deumix was used as exterior and interior plaster on all the perimeter walls of the structure. The system has improved the energy performance of the walls in addition to the dehumidification of the structure. 13

14 Case study Relais "Borgo Torale" - Perugia The historic residence "Relais Borgo Torale" is a beautiful resort located in Passignano sul Trasimeno, a delightful village overlooking the lake. An ancient village dating back to the mid 1600s, it once belonged to the Marquis Ranieri di Sorbello and is now a tourist resort. Diathonite Deumix was used on the external façades and all the internal walls of the structure. 14

15 Diathonite Deumix 3 times lighter, 3 times smarter Diathonite Deumix is a plaster formulated with pure cork using controlled and selected grain size. For this reason Diathonite Deumix has a density, and thus a coverage, that is three times lower than traditional plasters, which makes it a solution that is 3 times smarter. The light dehumidifier! Density: 440 Kg/m 3 Yield: 4.4 Kg/m 2 /cm 1 bag dehumidifies about 2.5 m 2 Value calculated based on a minimum applicable thickness of 2 cm Lower transport costs Lower co 2 emissions Less space occupied Easy to offer Less material needed Less waste on site During transportation One bag of Diathonite Deumix covers 2.5 m 2 of wall. Transportation costs are lower compared to a traditional plaster. Lower shipment cost of material and lower CO 2 emissions from transportation. In the Warehouse Diathonite Deumix occupies three times less space in the warehouse, optimising storage methods. In addition, Diathonite Deumix is easy to offer: just one product for all wall types with a coverage that is easy to calculate. At the construction site Dehumidifying with Diathonite Deumix requires 3 times less material. It simplifies all construction activities: handling, lifting and storage. Diathonite Deumix lowers waste production at the construction site, thanks to the completely recyclable bag. 15

16 DIASEN Srl Zona Ind. Berbentina, Sassoferrato (AN) - Italy Tel Fax diasen@diasen.com