Use of nanotalc as raw material for application in plaster matrix

Despite the increasing use of plaster as a construction material, due to its numerous advantages when compared to cement, its use is still restricted, because of its low mechanical resistance and high solubility in water. In this context, research has been carried out related to the addition of nanomaterials to improve the mechanical and physical properties of plaster in civil construction. A highly available, low-cost nanomaterial with excellent properties is nanotalc. In this work, nanocomposites with dimensions of 40 × 40 × 160 mm were produced with ultrafine micronized nanotalc replacing plaster in proportions of 0%; 0.5%; 1%; 1.5% and 2%. The physical and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites were evaluated according to standards. The nanocomposites produced with 1% nanotalc showed satisfactory results for physical and mechanical properties, with an increase of 1.8% in apparent density and 24.12% in compressive strength, and a decrease in water absorption of 6.23%, compared to the composite without the incorporation of nanotalc. The production of nanocomposites with the incorporation of 1% nanotalc is viable and shown to be promising, presenting potential for application as linings and internal partitions, since they showed low water absorption due to the hydrophobicity of nanotalc.