Lessons learnt from the anomalous water sorptivity of stones: the case of a cypriot limestone

Author(s):Cleopatra Charalambous, Ioannis Ioannou
Paper category: Proceedings
Book title: Proceedings of the International RILEM Conference
Materials, Systems and Structures in Civil Engineering 2016 segment on
Historical Masonry
Editor(s): Inge Rörig-Dalgaard and Ioannis Ioannou
ISBN: 978-2-35158-178-0
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-179-7
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2016
Pages: 84-93
Total Pages: 10
Language : English

Abstract: One of the most common construction materials used all over the world is natural stone. In Cyprus,
in particular, several monuments and historic buildings have been constructed using this material
due to the diverse and accessible geological formations of the island. However, stone buildings, as
well as cultural and architectural heritage stone structures, are affected by the presence of water,
which mediates several decay mechanisms. This paper looks into the water sorptivity of a Cypriot
limestone, which appears to deviate from normal expected behaviour. The anomalous water
sorptivity of the stone under investigation suggests that the material possesses an inherent water
repellency due to the presence of organic contaminants. This natural water repellency is exploited
to develop a water repellent surface treatment. The efficiency and durability of the aforementioned
treatment, as well as its effect on the pore system and the mineralogical composition of stone is
investigated. The results strongly suggest that the water repellent treatment in question succeeds in
permanently reducing the sorptivity of the Cypriot limestone and may therefore be used in
conservation projects for the protection of stone facades.

Online publication : 2016
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00