A. Pallet Tag Program
- Cleaning
Cleaning trials are conducted to determine the optimal cleaning products and procedures that most efficiently remove mortar stains from the masonry surface.
Mortar is applied to the masonry surface and allowed to cure for a specified period of days. Chemical cleaning products are evaluated at different dilutions, followed by pressure water rinsing. Mortar removal is visually evaluated following drying.
Color change surface alteration
-
Color change/surface alteration
Evaluation of color change and/or surface alteration is determined for each substrate evaluated. With most substrates, we compare color and surface finish of the untreated control to that of the cleaned surface. With concrete block, we also evaluate surface erosion by comparing the natural through-body color to the cleaned surfaces.
- Water repellency
RILEM water absorption tube testing is used to evaluate the performance of protective treatments. A 5.0 ml tube is used for clay and natural stone substrates; a 60mph tube is used for concrete block. View the RILEM tube test procedure
Rilem tube tests
- Graffiti resistance
This evaluation compares the effectiveness of graffiti resistant coatings in preventing staining from enamel spray paint and permanent marker graffiti agents. Removal of the graffiti agents with chemical cleaning products is attempted 24 hours after application of the graffiti agents. Comparison of graffiti removal from treated and untreated surfaces is used to determine effectiveness.
- Stain resistance
Several staining agents are applied to treated and untreated masonry samples. Surface beading of each staining agent is rated. Following several dwell periods, the surfaces are cleaned and allowed to dry. Visual evaluation of treated and untreated surfaces is used to determine percent removal of each staining agent.
- Color/Sheen enhancement
Color and sheen enhancement are rated following a visual evaluation of treated and untreated surfaces.
B. Conservation treatment evaluation
Sculptural limestone erosion
The Conservation Treatment Evaluation is designed for projects where masonry deterioration is advanced. The test program evaluates the effectiveness of conservation treatments in stabilizing conditions and preventing future deterioration.
View the AMT Labs Conservation Treatment Evaluation PO or the
AMT Labs Conservation Treatment Evaluation Brochure
1. Pre-Treatment Test Program
Pre-treatment tests are designed to measure chemical and physical properties of the substrate to assess the severity of deterioration and identify possible sources of decay.
Petrographic analysis
Identification of the mineralogical composition of the masonry sample is determined through optical microscope evaluation and x‑ray diffraction analysis.
Water solubility
The percent water soluble component of the masonry sample is measured to identify contaminants and natural cements in the sample and to evaluate its vulnerability to water-related deterioration.
Acid solubility
The percent acid soluble component of the masonry sample is measured to assess its vulnerability to deterioration by acidic precipitation.
Water absorption
Water absorption is measured over a 24- hour period. The absorption rate and capacity are used to determine appropriate conservation treatment(s) and application procedures.
Hygroscopic uptake
Absorption of hygroscopic moisture is measured over a 24-hour period. The percent absorption helps characterize natural cements and contaminants.
Anionic salt analysis
Chloride, sulfate and nitrate salts are measured. These data help identify sources of deterioration and are important in designing appropriate cleaning procedures.
2. Post-Treatment Test Program
In addition to identifying sources of deterioration, the results of pre-treatment tests help determine appropriate conservation treatments. Post-treatment tests measure the effectiveness of conservation treatments and rule out adverse effects.
Absorption of the conservation treatment
Deposition of the conservation treatment is measured immediately after application and following cure.
Depth of penetration
The penetration depth of the conservation treatment is measured to rule out crust formation that is associated with accelerated deterioration.
Water absorption
Water absorption over a 24-hour period is measured for treated samples. Percent effectiveness is determined by comparing these data with water absorption data measured for untreated samples.
Color change
Changes in color and gloss are visually evaluated following conservation treatment.
Water vapor transmission
Water vapor transmission of treated and untreated samples is measured over a 10-day period. Results are compared to determine the reduction in water vapor transmission following conservation treatment.
3. Additional Post-Treatment Tests: