Measurement of the resistance to deterioration of old and new bricks by means of accelerated aging tests

Freeze-thaw and salt crystallization tests (the latter ones adapted to the particular case of the local weather conditions) were used as accelerated aging tests to characterize the original and the newly manufactured bricks in monuments. The degree of alteration was determined by the loss of compressive strength. Correlations with non-destructive methods, such as propagation of ultrasound, were attempted. An easy characterization of the existing bricks in a monument could thus be achieved which facilitates the choice of replacement bricks for restoration purposes. See also AATA 17-657 for another study of testing of bricks.