Evaluation of bricks durability using destructive and nondestructive methods (DT and NDT)

Abstract

We have studied the physical-mechanical behaviour of solid bricks treated with consolidants and/or water-repellents in accelerated aging tests to determine their durability. The bricks were manufactured with a quartz-rich clay lacking in carbonates to which was added small amounts of different additives (calcite, dolomite or sodium chloride). During the manufacturing process, we attempted to replicate solid bricks similar to those used in many Cultural Heritage buildings. We have concluded that silicon resin gives the best results, whatever the additive used, whereas acrylic resin gives the least satisfactory results.