A coupled multiphase model for hygrothermal analysis of masonry structures and prediction of stress induced by salt crystallization

Heat, moisture and salt transport combined with salt crystallization strongly influence the durability of porous construction materials like masonry. With this in mind, this paper presents a novel coupled multiphase model for hygrothermal analysis of masonry structures and effective prediction of stress induced by salt crystallization. Firstly, the model is calibrated through experimental data. In particular, water and brine uptake and evaporation tests on a single brick and on a simple masonry column are reproduced. Then, the model is used to simulate the results of an extensive experimental campaign carried out on a masonry wall exposed to weather conditions for 2 years. Very good agreement between the model predictions and the experimental evidence is obtained, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed approach.

► A novel coupled multiphase model for hygrothermal analysis of masonry structures is presented.
► Effective prediction of stress induced by salt crystallization is provided by the model.
► The model is calibrated through various experimental data.
► Comparison with results of an extensive experimental campaign on a masonry wall is performed.
► A very good agreement between the model predictions and the experimental evidence is obtained.