Author(s)

M. Raupach & J. Brockmann

Abstract

In recent decades, polymer-based impregnation agents have been developed with the aim of reducing the deterioration of natural stone buildings and monuments. Prior to using these products on historic buildings, various tests on effectiveness and durability had to be carried out. The problem of accelerated ageing methods is that they can induce material damage which is not comparable with processes occurring in nature, but long- term outdoor exposure is time-consuming and costly. At the Institute for Building Materials Research an experimental apparatus called "VENUS" (German anagram denoting 'test plant for the development of realistic environmental simulation concepts') is used for accelerated, reproducible, complex weathering. The weathering cycle of the VENUS

Keywords