Strength Characteristics of Historical Mortars-Experimental Study Using the Double Punch Method

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Civil Engineering
• Structural Analysis

Background:

• Assessing mortar strength is vital for heritage building analysis, repair, and reconstruction.
• Various non-destructive and destructive testing methods exist for mortar strength evaluation.
• Heritage structures require specialized techniques due to conservation constraints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present strength test results of historical mortars from 19th and 20th-century Cracow buildings.
• To evaluate the double-punch method's suitability for minor-destructive mortar strength testing.
• To analyze the influence of sample thickness and capping materials on test outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Extraction of mortar samples from bed joints of heritage buildings.
• Application of the double-punch method for minor-destructive strength testing.
• Detailed analysis of factors affecting test results, including sample thickness and capping materials.

Main Results:

• The double-punch method proved effective for testing historical mortars with minimal damage.
• Sample thickness and capping material type significantly impacted the measured strength values.
• Specific procedural recommendations were developed for applying the double-punch method to historical mortars.

Conclusions:

• The double-punch method is a valuable tool for assessing the strength of historical mortars in situ.
• Understanding the influence of testing parameters is crucial for accurate strength characterization.
• The study provides practical recommendations for the effective use of this method in heritage conservation.