The effect of gamma radiation in the range of 0-1409 MGy on the structure of a new mineral additive to cement based composites was investigated in the perspective of employing them as radioactive waste protection material. According to the authors knowledge, it is the first paper dealing with observations of the cement matrix, both pure and modified, treated with so giant radiation dose. The absorption of gamma radiation modifies the morphology of the additive grains, causes decomposition of cement hydrates and clinker relicts in cement paste containing the additive at twice higher radiation dose than that inducing the decomposition of the reference pure cement paste and the cement paste containing pozzolane additives.

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The fungal genera are known for their high ability to biodeteriorate construction materials. Weight loss and release of calcium are observed when materials, especially concrete, are exposed to fungi. The paper presents the procedures enabling to assess the risk of biocorrosion of buildings at various stages of its development. The presented results lead to selection of effective analytical methodology for this propose. The study was conducted on materials commonly used as construction materials such as granite, ceramic, concrete and plaster. Surfaces of the tested samples were fouled by three selected fungal genera. Changes in properties of the materials due to interaction of fungi have been studied with the use of ergosterol content measurements, microscopic picturing, bioluminescence imaging, measurements of pH and X-ray spectroscopy analysis. Particular attention was paid to propose an appropriate method of estimating the effect of fungi on the surface of building materials using advanced analytical techniques.