Abstract
The basic physical properties, mechanical parameters, hygric and thermal properties of two types of ceramic brick produced at the beginning of the 20 th century and a contemporary ceramic brick are studied, in order to analyze the applicability of the current bricks at the reconstruction of historical masonry. Among the basic physical properties, the bulk density, matrix density, total open porosity and pore size distribution are analyzed. The mechanical performance is characterized by the bending strength, compressive strength and dynamic Young’s modulus. The moisture and salt solution transport is studied using a free water or salt solution uptake experiment where the penetration of either distilled water or 1M NaCl water solution is observed. The capability to accumulate water vapour is studied by a dynamic vapour sorption device. Thermal parameters are measured using a transient pulse method. The experimental results show that the analyzed current ceramic brick is suitable for the reconstruction works on historical buildings.
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