Towards understanding the influence of porosity on mechanical and fracture behaviour of quasi-brittle materials: Experiments and modelling

In this work, porosity-property relationships of quasi-brittle materials are explored through a combined experimental and numerical approach. In the experimental part, hemihyrate gypsum plaster powder (CaSO 4 ⋅1/2H 2 O CaSO4⋅1/2H2O) and expanded spherical polystyrene beads (1.5–2.0 mm dia.) have been mixed to form a model material with...

Characterization and compatibility assessment of commercial stone repair mortars

Compatibility of repair materials in conservation is a widely desired goal, but difficult to achieve. In this research, the compatibility of four commercial stone repair mortars, commonly used in conservation practice in the Netherlands and neighbouring countries, is discussed. In order to do so, they have been characterized in laboratory....