Drop shape analysis - innovative implement in renovation area

Quality and durability of constructions and renovation of them is affected and addicted to the properties of the building materials and resistance under moisture load. Several refurbishments are based on substances whose dilution is applied on the surface of building material. Refurbishments can be carried out with an additional horizontal moisture barrier, hydrophobic treatments and coatings of surfaces whereby material properties are changed. Material properties can be described by physical values. The innovative character of this research is due to the use of drop shape analysis and values like contact angle and surface energy to complement conventional material properties. Applications of drop shape analysis in this research will be: - Contact angle on powder Due to the use of drop shape analysis an additional criteria will be created to evaluate material characteristics concerning hygric behaviour. Contact angle on powder will be a benefit for renovation sector where instructions of monument protection bar destruction and material loss. The evaluation of contact angle and hydrophobic properties on powder or drilling chips helps to reduce the amount of sampling what is delicate on monuments. By measuring contact angles on bricks, plasters and mixtures on drilling chips the minimum of material amount for meaningful results will be defined. - Contact angle on fresh mortar The identification of contact angle on fresh mortar of refurbishment plaster will be used for determination the point of time (plaster age) when hydrophobic properties are developed. - Relation of contact angle to conventional material properties Results of drop shape analysis will be used for definition of hygric material properties and compared to conventional measurement methods and characteristics. So relation of water absorption and contact angle values of façade coatings will be established. The aim of this research is to demonstrate the application possibilities of drop shape analysis to describe material characteristics in building physic. Limits and additional specifications will be pointed out.