Geopolymers and polymers in the conservation of tile facades

Abstract

The most commonly used materials to fill gaps/lacunae in glazed tiles are lime mortars or organic resins, which have some disadvantages regarding their compatibility and durability, failing to guarantee the desired characteristics. Therefore, there is a need to develop new materials with compatible characteristics, able to withstand exposure to variations in climatic conditions. This scientific work focuses on the possibility of using geopolymers, aiming to evaluate the possibility of the use of these materials in the intervention process of historic tiles conservation as compatible materials that may be used to fill gaps. Different geopolymer pastes were developed changing the source of aluminosilicates, the type of alkaline activators and the pH. To evaluate the geopolymers, polymers and tiles, several tests were carried out. The results suggest that the geopolymers are a possible option for the filling of tile gaps, given the characteristics that can be achieved, ensuring compatibility and durability properties.