Modification of Masonry Mortar and Structure of Ceramic Bricks to Reduce Efflorescence

Abstract

At present, efflorescence formation on the surface of brickwork is a problem for many buildings under construction and those already built. Efflorescence not only spoil the external appearance of the facades, but in rare cases can even lead to peeling of the brick and reducing its durability. The conducted researches show that in most cases efflorescence on the facades of buildings under construction is formed by sodium sulfate and calcium carbonate. Sources of these salts are masonry cement mortars with plasticizing additives containing sodium salts. In this case, the porous structure of bricks contributes to its water saturation and the migration of soluble salts, leading to the formation of efflorescence on the masonry surface. This article suggests the criteria for selecting mortar composition that excludes the appearance of soluble salts, and introduces results of the research on the resistance of ceramic bricks modified with multilayer carbon nanotubes to salt corrosion.