M. Wesołowska¹
1)  UTP University of Science and Technology
Al. S. Kaliskiego 7, 85-796 Bydgoszcz, Poland
e-mail: marysia@utp.edu.pl

Keywords: Face wall, masonry mortar, structural integrity, clinker brick.

Abstract. Proper functioning of a facing wall in external environment is a consequence of its structural integrity. The wall structural integrity depends first of all on mortar which except for its obvious support function should also ensure proper junction quality. This feature is a derivative of mortar adhesion and susceptibility to microstructure changes in the joint. It is a result of mortar workability, but also joint substrate properties for water absorption. This article introduces evaluation of junction quality of clinker bricks in dry air and soaked with water with four mortars (one cement type and three cement-lime mortars). The proposed test procedure uses the idea of water permeability evaluation through roofing elements. The loss of water was defined in relation to the initial level of 15 cm, number of specimens showing the  total junction permeability during tests and distribution of mass humidity in adjacent bricks.For each variant 2 test cycles were performed (after 28 days of mortar ageing and then after 25 freezing cycles). The tests showed that junction quality depends on mortar composition and preliminary soaking of clinker wall elements increases the junction tightness. Proper junctions are created by mortars for which a slight decrease of water occur, and humidity distributionon both sides of a specimen is similar and unchanged after freezing cycles. It is the result of limiting the defect numbers of the upper junction surface which is sensitive to corrections.