Statistical design applied to hydric property behaviour for monitoring granite consolidation and/or water-repellent treatments

Abstract

The suitability of granite conservation treatments (consolidation and/or water-repellency) wide/y used to protect heritage structures was evaluated on the basis of the changes occurring in the intrinsic characteristics of the stone (imbibition capacity open porosity total water-accessible porosity water vapour permeability and capillar absorption coefficient). A statistical analysis conducted of the values obtained for these properties/ which showed differences in fluid flow through the rocks/ found that the application of consolidants followed by water repellency treatment was more effective than either procedure alone, substantially enhancing the properties of the stone from the standpoint of its use as a construction material.

Keywords

• ornamental rocks
• granites
• consolidation and water-repellency treatments
• porosity