Chemical demolition of unit masonry: A preparatory study

Atteyeh S. Natanazi, Debra F. Laefer, Susan Mullane

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Chemical demolition of concrete and rock has been conducted on a commercial basis since the 1970s, although not widely adopted. Furthermore, to date there have been no publications on the application of this class of products to unit masonry. To begin to fill this gap, this paper documents a laboratory study on the insertion of a soundless chemical demolition agent into a series of unit masonry wallettes. The paper introduces initial steps towards developing a procedure for the non-percussive demolition of such a wall and observations on the progressive nature of cracking in such arrangements. Although neither the assembled units nor the mortar in these tests were of historic material, the paper provides critical insight into the application of this technology into a building configuration in which it is not usually seen. The results show the promise this technology holds for highly selective material removal, without endangering the surrounding material for historic brick and stone buildings.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationStructural Analysis of Historical Constructions
Subtitle of host publicationAnamnesis, diagnosis, therapy, controls - Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions, SAHC 2016
EditorsKoen Van Balen, Els Verstrynge, Koen Van Balen
PublisherCRC Press/Balkema
Pages88-95
Number of pages8
ISBN (Print)9781138029514
StatePublished - 2016
Event10th International Conference on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions, SAHC 2016 - Leuven, Belgium
Duration: Sep 13 2016Sep 15 2016

Publication series

NameStructural Analysis of Historical Constructions: Anamnesis, diagnosis, therapy, controls - Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions, SAHC 2016

Other

Other10th International Conference on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions, SAHC 2016
Country/TerritoryBelgium
CityLeuven
Period9/13/169/15/16

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Safety Research
  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction
  • Architecture

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