Reverse engineering: a proper methodology for compatible restoration of mortars

Title: Reverse engineering: a proper methodology for compatible restoration of mortars
Author(s): A. Moropoulou, A. Bakolas, P. Moundoulas, E. Aggelakopoulou
Paper category : conference
Book title: Workshop Repair Mortars for Historic Masonry
Editor(s): C. Groot
Print-ISBN: None
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-083-7
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2009
Pages: 278 - 291
Total Pages: 14
Nb references: 35
Language: English

Abstract: The authentic mortars, deteriorated by natural weathering, salt decay and corrosive action of polluted atmospheres, have to be replaced, while extensive use of cement and polymer-based mortars, give unsatisfactory results, due to the high content of soluble salts and the limited compatibility with the original components of the masonry. Hence, restoration mortars with characteristics as similar as possible to those of the materials to be repaired are searched out. In Greece, where the art of masonry and mortars flourished from the ancient years to Byzantium, a variety of hydraulic mortars overcoming the above problems and proving high bearing capacity, has been studied by the NTUA Materials Science and Engineering Dept., showing tentatively, that it is possible either to improve the characteristics of traditional lime mortars by hydraulic lime, or to reconstruct durable pozzolanic mortars by active aggregates and admixtures like crushed brick and powder. A reverse engineering approach is adopted, i.e. to check the working hypothesis arising from durable ancient mortars by several syntheses concerning various compositions and proportions. Certain criteria are set for the choice of the raw materials, based on Standards, as well as, a certain production procedure is adopted. The evaluation of the restoration mortars (thermal analysis, microstructure, mechanical properties) is based on the acceptability limits set by the historic composites. The performance of restoration mortars in the masonry on pilot and monuments’ scale is evaluated, regarding mainly the adhesion and cohesion bonds developed and the masonry behaviour regarding salt solution capillary rise, percolation and evaporation. The restoration mortars contribution to the structures behavior under seismic loads is evaluated by determining the mechanical characteristics (flexural, compressive strength, dynamic and static modulus of elasticity) of the mortars, by determining the static and dynamic behavior of pilot masonries constructed by them.

Online publication: 2009-06-08
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00