Influence of pH during chemical weathering of bricks: Long term exposure

Inge Rörig-Dalgaard, A. Elena Charola

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingArticle in proceedingsResearchpeer-review

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    Abstract

    Within the framework of environmental weathering of bricks in historical structures, this study focuses on new bricks currently employed for restoration projects. The bricks were subjected to an accelerated chemical weathering test by immersion in solutions with pH ranging from 3 to 13 for different lengths of time up to 432 days, data to 288 days are presented since the project is still ongoing. The study analyzed the changes of pH induced in the solutions by the presence of the bricks (this also served to adjust the pH to the intended value), as well as the concentration of various ions extracted from the bricks over time. As the bricks were taken out at the different times, their capillary absorption curves were determined, followed by a vacuum saturation with water for the determination of the open porosity, as well as the density. Finally, a 24 hour total immersion in water was also carried out proving to be practically the same as achieved after the capillary absorption rate stabilized after 6 hours in this test. The results obtained showed that the two main deterioration mechanisms are the ion-exchange at acid pH, and the alkaline corrosion undergone particularly at pH 13.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationProceedings of the International RILEM Conference: Materials, Systems and Structures in Civil Engineering 2016 : Segment on Historical Masonry
    PublisherRilem publications
    Publication date2016
    Pages165-174
    ISBN (Print)978-2-35158-178-0
    ISBN (Electronic)978-2-35158-179-7
    Publication statusPublished - 2016
    EventInternational RILEM Conference on Materials, Systems and Structures in Civil Engineering - Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
    Duration: 15 Aug 201629 Aug 2016

    Conference

    ConferenceInternational RILEM Conference on Materials, Systems and Structures in Civil Engineering
    LocationTechnical University of Denmark
    Country/TerritoryDenmark
    CityKgs. Lyngby
    Period15/08/201629/08/2016

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