Experimental investigation on the moisture movement behavior of granites

Abstract

This study comprehensively investigates the hygric performance of two commonly used types of granite in masonry, each characterized by distinct porosity levels. A series of experimental tests, including capillary absorption, one-dimensional drying, cup methods, vacuum saturation, sorption/desorption isotherms, mercury intrusion porosimetry, and ultrasonic pulse velocity, was conducted in different directions and by using both pure water and NaCl solutions. The results highlight pronounced anisotropy in the granite’s hygric response, with significant directional differences in liquid and vapor moisture movement, as well as ultrasonic wave propagation. Granite with lower porosity and a finer pore structure exhibited hysteresis effects and more pronounced hygroscopic behavior, while granite with higher porosity showed greater capillary activity. The presence of salt crystals within the pore network significantly influences vapor and liquid transport properties, porosity, and moisture storage capacity. The gradual formation of sodium chloride crystals on drying surfaces noticeably altered drying kinetics, influenced by salt concentration and pore characteristics. These findings provide valuable insights into the hygric properties of granite, essential for understanding its durability and informing moisture transfer numerical models.