Full-scale Models for the Study of Repair Techniques on Brick Masonry Surfaces

A systematic approach to the study of durability of wall surface treatments has been set up by the authors since some years. The study, previously based on accelerated aging tests and subsequent measurement of surface deterioration of treated and untreated specimens, has now been extended to full-scale facades. Three small constructions designed by the authors with modular facades made of sandstone and/or soft-mud facing bricks have been built in open field. A continuous content of water in the subsoil can be provided so that the capillary rise of water into the masonry is assured; soluble salts can also be provided from the soil. Some of the facades have been treated with protective materials, some others will be treated after deterioration. Besides collection of data concerning the environment and the moisture and salt movements in the walls, the deterioration of the external surfaces, the influence of mortar joints on moisture distribution and of the position and exposure of the material on the deterioration are being taken into account. Comparison between the in-situ and laboratory results are being carried out in order to adjust the aging tests to the natural environment.