Innovative mix design with bionatural aggregates for precast vibro compressed units

The paper deals with the use of bio-natural components in the mix design of vibrated blocks for masonry walls or for precast elements. Cork granules and hemp fibers are proposed in the mix design to substitute polymeric elements or expanded clay; the use of Natural Hydraulic Lime (NHL) as binder is also investigated. An exper-imental campaign is presented, considering seven different mix design types. Mechanical tests are performed to evaluate the influence of each mix design on flexural and compression behavior. The proposal is also inves-tigated from productive point of view, considering how it can be harmonized in the productive process of lightweight aggregate concrete units. The components ensure reduction of carbon impact; NHL with cork and hemp performs an effective binding of the mix design and protects the bio-natural components from molds or fungi.