Diagnosing Defects in Lime-based Materials

This paper describes the techniques available to ensure correct diagnosis of defects in lime-based construction materials. It commences with a discussion of the types of defects and their causes. Details of the techniques used for investigation of defects and their diagnosis follow. In addition, a summary of the types of repair that should be used for each defect is provided. The paper includes examples from conservation projects for a variety of historic structures.

Figure 8 Petrographic examination of lime mortar using the low-power stereo microscope (right) and high-power petrological microscope (left). Courtesy of IBIS Limited.

Jeremy Ingham

Jeremy Ingham is a Senior Materials Engineer with the Asset Management and Engineering Skill Group of Halcrow Group Limited. He provides consultancy and investigation services for construction and conservation projects worldwide, involving materials technology, forensic engineering and asset management planning. He has fifteen years’ experience of historic structures and traditional construction materials, and of providing condition surveys, laboratory testing, selection of materials and specification of repairs. He is an expert microscopist and author of the book Geomaterials Under the Microscope – A Colour Guide.

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Donhead Publishing 2010