A methodology for hygrothermal modelling of imperfect masonry interfaces

Hygrothermal models are important tools for assessing the risk of moisture-related decay mechanisms which can compromise structural integrity, loss architectural features and material. There several sources uncertainty when modelling masonry, related to material properties, boundary conditions, quality construction two-dimensional interactions between mortar unit. This paper examines at mortar-unit interface with imperfections such as hairline cracks or imperfect contact conditions. These will alter rate liquid transport into out wall impede masonry means that effective system be different then if only properties bulk were modelled. A detailed methodology this a fracture is presented including definition fracture. The considers combined effect both resistance across increase in parallel interface, generalisable various combinations materials, geometries apertures. Two-dimensional DELPHIN clay brick/cement-mortar created simulate interaction. exposed conditions wetting, drying natural cyclic weather results these simulations compared baseline model where was not included. presence fractures increased absorption wetting phase an desorption phase. Under result higher peak moisture contents after rain events lower long periods drying. demonstrated have definitive influence on conclusions from hygrothermal simulations.