Use of natural additives in construction materials – a review

Abstract

This work briefly addresses the issue of the use of natural additives in the search for improvement of construction materials, and specifically, in the elaboration of hydraulic concrete. The use of natural additives in the production of construction materials is not new. The knowledge about its properties and effects has been transferred orally for many years. The amount of natural additives in the construction is varied, and its use depends on the availability locally in sufficient quantities for its employment. In cement-based materials, they improve the plasticity, reduce the water absorption, increase the mechanical resistance, reduce the diffusion rate of aggressive ions inside the cementing matrix and had inhibiting properties against corrosion of reinforcing steel. Based on the benefits provided by these additions, it is necessary consider its use to build architectural and civil constructions more durable and environmentally sustainable.