A Comparative Study on Hygric Properties and Compressive Strength of Ceramic Bricks

This article analyzes the results of capillary rise, compressive strength and water absorption tests on solid ceramic bricks from existing structures and demolition materials taken from 11 different structures. In addition (for more extensive interpretation and evaluation of porosity), tests were performed for the selected series of bricks using a mercury porosimeter (MIP) and a micro computed tomography (micro-CT). Contemporary bricks (2 series) were also evaluated for comparison purposes. The conducted tests indicate that bricks obtained from different sources are characterized by “individual” relation of compressive strength and porosity, and “individual” relation of water absorption coefficient and porosity. In addition, on the basis of the results obtained in the study, compared with the literature data, it can be deduced that ceramic bricks with a water absorption coefficient of less than 50 g/m2s0.5 are characterized by a compressive strength of more than 80 MPa. As the research shows, the properties of bricks even from a single building can differ one from another, which can result in varying durability even within a single building. When choosing a material during the renovation or restoration of facilities, it is important to perform tests on the physical and mechanical properties of the original material, which will be reused.