Evaluation of Test Methods and Environmental Conditions to Promote Efflorescence Formation Under Laboratory Conditions

Abstract

Abstract Several test procedures that induce formation of efflorescence on the surface of porous block specimens were investigated. This paper describes the tests that were investigated and the environmental conditions under which these tests were performed. A wicking procedure, run at an elevated temperature and low relative humidity, rapidly produces efflorescence on the surface of test samples. The rate of efflorescence formation was fastest at an elevated temperature and lower relative humidity and slowest at a cool temperature and high relative humidity. The wicking test can be used to rapidly determine the effect of changing mix proportion and the effectiveness of sealers and anti-efflorescence additives on the efflorescence potential of porous masonry units.