Salt crystallization in hydrophobic porous materials

This paper presents the results of drying experiments on hydrophobised calcium-silicate (calsilb) beams in order to validate theoretical models describing salt transport and salt crystallization. Experimental data include results from moisture transport as well as deformation measurements of the beams. X-ray analysis is used to determine the moisture transport, SEM and EDX to localize and analyze the salt crystals. Recently, a crystallization model was developed by Coussy [6] and is validated by the performed experiments. These also validate the poromechanical interpretation of the mechanical behaviour of the beams when influenced by the presence of moisture and salt crystals. A good agreement between measurements and modelling is obtained.

ISBN:978-3-931681-92-0

Publication year:2008

BOF-keylabel:yes

IOF-keylabel:yes

Authors from:Higher Education

Accessibility:Open