@article{article_1553666, title={Physical and Mechanical Properties of Different Types of Mortars Produced with Hydrophobic Perlite}, journal={Bilecik Şeyh Edebali Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Dergisi}, volume={12}, pages={621–629}, year={2025}, DOI={10.35193/bseufbd.1553666}, author={Ünal, Serdal and Gökçen, Hasan Serkan and Canbaz, Mehmet}, keywords={Hydrophobic, perlite, cement, gypsum plaster}, abstract={This study contributes to the limited research in this field by enabling hydrophobic perlite to be used more efficiently in cement and gypsum based lightweight composites by reducing water absorption and explores an innovative approach to increase the hydrophobic properties of expanded perlite by making it hydrophobic. In the first stage, hydrophobic perlite was obtained by grinding expanded perlite together with a liquid chemical agent with hydrophobic properties. This hydrophobic perlite was mixed with cement and gypsum at different water ratios to produce various mortars. The physical properties of the mortars were analyzed in terms of unit weight, water absorption rate by weight, capillary water absorption rate and ultrasonic pulse velocity, while the compressive strength was investigated in terms of mechanical properties. Tests on criteria, such as water absorption test, ultrasonic transmission rate, unit weight and compressive strength revealed that mortars produced with hydrophobic perlite exhibited significantly lower water absorption rates and improved mechanical properties compared to conventional mortars. The findings of the study indicate that hydrophobic perlite is an effective contributor to the production of water-resistant and performance-enhanced building materials. This method offers potential applications in the construction and building industries for the development of mortars and other building materials with enhanced hydrophobic properties.}, number={2}, publisher={Bilecik Seyh Edebali University}