KAMIŃSKI, KRZYSZTOF1

1) Ass. Professor, Warsaw University of Technology, k57@wp.pl

An extensive research program followed in order to find out whether pore fluid that accumulates in masonry as a result of hygroscopic sorption shows a tendency of rising. Observations of changes of mass moisture, the amount of soluble salts and pH reaction were carried out in conditions “in-situ” during three 12-month periods of regular check of humidity and temperature of air. Results have confirmed the suspected migration capabilities of pore fluid in masonry in the absence of capillary suction of moisture from its lower parts. These findings may put new light on the scope and suitability of restoration plaster and subsequent duplicate horizontal insulation when performing repairs of damp and saline masonry.

Keywords: capillary rise, pore fluid, sorptivity, salt migration