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The Wall Coverings Laboratory (URPa) is part of the Building Finishes and Thermal Insulation Unit  within the Buildings Department of LNEC.

This testing laboratory was created in 1992, with a view to support studies on materials and construction systems for thermal insulation and covering of non-structural building elements.
URPa has the facilities and equipment capable of performing the most recent tests within its area of activity, along with highly skilled staff with more than 20 years of experience.

Additional information can be found at this laboratory's flyer.

Field of expertise

URPa develops activity in different fields, particularly as regards the characterization and performance evaluation of the following types of building materials and systems, either in laboratory or in situ:

  • plasters;
  • pre-dosed wall renders based on lime or cement binder;
  • pre-dosed wall renders of synthetic or synthetic and mineral binder;
  • thermal insulation coverings (e.g., ETICS, insulating panels, thermal mortars);
  • claddings (e.g., ceramic tiles);
  • other materials used in the execution of wall coverings (e.g., net for reinforcing mortars, fixing systems for cladding panels).

Testing

URPa performs several tests on wall coverings, including the following:

  • characterization of powder products (e.g., bulk density, particle size distribution (sieve analysis), determination of ash content);
  • characterization of fresh mortars (e.g., bulk density, consistence by flow table method, determination of setting time, determination of the water / binder ratio, air content);
  • characterization and performance evaluation of hardened mortar and wall covering systems (e.g., dry bulk density, dynamic elasticity modulus, flexural and compressive strength, porosity, water vapour permeability, water permeability under pressure, water-absorption due to capillary action, adhesive strength, dimensional stability, wear resistance – sphere shock, grid shock, punching, scratching, abrasion);
  • accelerated ageing tests;
  • natural exposure tests.

Other services

In addition to the studies referred to above, which are usually associated with research under contract, and within NRI’s framework, URPa also conducts studies of a more comprehensive nature related to:

  • research studies for the development of materials, construction systems and assessment methods;
  • research studies for the conservation and rehabilitation of ancient wall coverings;
  • experimental modelling studies of wall coverings under different use conditions;
  • advisory and support to design;
  • support to the construction industry activities, by performing tests of characterization, behaviour and performance of wall coverings.