Performance of expanded high-density cork agglomerates

Abstract

Prototype boards of high-density expanded cork agglomerates (230 and 290 kgm−3) were produced and tested for tensile strength (before and after moisture resistance cyclic tests), hardness, thermal conductivity, and reaction to fire. Increases in tensile strength and dimensional stability were observed with the increase in density. No significant change in thermal conductivity was noticed. The application of a varnish resulted in a noticeable increase in hardness for the higher-density cork agglomerate. Reaction to fire was improved from class Efl to class Cfl. The improvement of properties of expanded cork agglomerates from densification can enhance their application in the building sector.