Moisture induced weathering of volcanic tuffstone
article
Tuffstone elements with a large length/width ratio often suffer damage in the form of cracks parallel to
the surface and spalling of the outer layer. This study aimed at verifying if this damage may be the result
of a differential dilation between parts with different moisture content. The research, carried out on
Ettringen and Weibern tuff, comprised a weathering test and measurements of porosity, moisture transport
and hygric behaviour of the stones, supplemented by environmental X-ray diffraction analyses. Results support the hypothesis that moisture gradients in tuff elements may enhance decay in this stone
the surface and spalling of the outer layer. This study aimed at verifying if this damage may be the result
of a differential dilation between parts with different moisture content. The research, carried out on
Ettringen and Weibern tuff, comprised a weathering test and measurements of porosity, moisture transport
and hygric behaviour of the stones, supplemented by environmental X-ray diffraction analyses. Results support the hypothesis that moisture gradients in tuff elements may enhance decay in this stone
TNO Identifier
824665
Source
Construction and Building Materials, 187, pp. 1-13.
Pages
1-13
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