ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a methodology for the detection and quantification of the moisture content in ceramic masonry structures, based on Non-Destructive Techniques. The infrared thermog-raphy constitutes an optimal technique for the primary and immediate detection of possible areas with high moisture content. Masonry constitutes one of the most used construction systems in the history of humanity. Particularly in Uruguay, and in the rest of Ibero-America, an important part of the architectural heritage has been built with ceramic bricks. Due to the porosity and lack of impermeability of this material, and taking into account the numerous defects of the employed constructive techniques, the presence of moisture represents one of the major problems in the structures of ceramic masonry. Moisture affects the performance and durability of materials, and the aesthetics and habitability of buildings directly. Infrared thermography technique was used in a large wall to test the effectiveness in detection of the moisture content.
