Prediction Model for the Evolution of the Deterioration of Bricks in Heritage Buildings in Venice Caused by Climate Change

This work presents a methodology for obtaining a quantitative expression of the superficial deterioration of bricks affected by climatic conditions. The method combines in situ measurements with laboratory data. Input data on material recession were obtained from photogrammetric observations, the material properties were derived from laboratory tests or the relevant literature, and climate data were provided from regional environmental monitoring service. The climatic parameters considered in this study are: relative humidity, number of freeze-thaw cycles (i.e., mean number of days per year with temperatures below zero), and peak sun hours per day. The methodology proposed estimates the deterioration rate of brick facades under variable climate conditions over time. As a conclusion of this research, a new tool for the structural evaluation of brick walls is presented.

Automated summary

This work presents a methodology that combines in situ measurements with laboratory data to obtain a quantitative expression of the superficial deterioration of bricks affected by climatic conditions. The methodology considers factors such as relative humidity, freeze-thaw cycles, and peak sun hours per day to estimate the deterioration rate of brick facades over time. As a result, a new tool for the structural evaluation of brick walls is proposed.