Binder loss in traditional mass masonry: A cause for concern?

Purpose - The purpose of this research is to highlight issues relating to binder migration in traditional lime mortars and the potential consequences of this phenomenon. The paper focuses on traditional mass masonry construction and will be of special interest to those surveying, maintaining and repairing historic ruinous structures and heavily exposed masonry bridges. Design/methodology/approach - The paper draws on literature pertaining to the repair of traditional mass masonry structures and the somewhat limited science of binder dissolution and migration in saturated conditions. The paper also draws on the author's practical and academic knowledge of writing specifications for the repair of mass masonry structures and utilises examples of binder migration from several case study buildings. Findings - The degree to which binder migration in traditional mortars occurs is little understood. It is, however, evident that migration of the binder occurs when saturated conditions are present and is exacerbated by prolonged moisture ingress. The effect of binder migration on the stability and performance of mass masonry structures is also little understood and requires greater attention. In addition, the nature of the repair mortars specified and the degree to which these materials have set will have a bearing on the potential for binder migration. Originality/value - An assessment of binder migration in traditional lime mortars and its effect on the stability and performance of mass masonry structures has never previously been undertaken. This paper is the first to highlight the problem.