Ziegel und Terrakotta - Wissenszuwachs aus der BMBF-Forschung für die Denkmalpflege / Burnt clay bricks and terracotta - gain of knowledge by BMBF supported research for the protection of monuments

First of all it is pointed out that ten years ago little was known on deterioration and repair of exposed brick masonry or terracotta. A comprehensive research programme has been initiated and financially supported by the German Federal Ministry for Research and Technology (BMFT). One aim of this research programme was to identify deterioration mechanisms in close cooperation between representatives from services for the protection of monuments and from research institutes. In addition repair methods meeting both practical needs and requirements of the protection of monuments were to be developed. Different types of damage have been characterized at numerous buildings. As a result repair methods specific for each building have been established. In this contribution most important results of the huge research programme are briefly mentioned.