Permeation and coating of neoprene latex in reed scraps/magnesium lightweight composites: Synergistic mechanism of crystallization induction and film-forming protection

Reed scraps/magnesium oxychloride lightweight composites are often used to improve the utilization of reed and reduce waste, environmental hazards, and building energy consumption. However, the mechanical strength of such composites degrades in wet environments due to their poor water resistance, which limits their applications as building materials. Here, neoprene latex (NL) was used to fill the internal pores of a composite via penetration, which then wound around crystals to form a film that improved the overall performance of the composite. The influence of the content of anionic and cationic neoprene latex (ANL, CNL) on the properties of the composites was analyzed and discussed. The results showed that adding an appropriate amount of NL improved the compactness of the composite. By promoting the growth of five-phase crystals, the adhesive film protected the composite from water erosion and improved its strength and water resistance. The strength and water resistance of the composites were the best upon adding 0.5 % ANL and 0.25 % CNL, and the overall modification effect of CNL was better than that of ANL. The modified composites showed a low density, high strength, and great water resistance, allowing them to be used as new green wall insulation materials. • The interfacial compatibility is improved through the induced crystallization and film-forming protection of emulsion. • Improve the utilization efficiency of reed resources, reduce the pollution and waste of agricultural and forestry waste. • A new type of green building wall material with light weight, energy saving and thermal insulation was prepared.