ABSTRACT
This chapter presents principal possibilities of laboratory testing and ways to modify nanolime dispersions. Laboratory tests can give only first indications about the applicability of a conservation material, but they are absolutely necessary for the development of detailed conservation concepts. Laboratory tests are extremely helpful to find the suitable way of treatment. The characterisation of the action of stone or mortar consolidants by laboratory tests is always a challenging task that may result in conclusions that are difficult to reproduce under field conditions. Requirements for the conservation of plaster and stucco result from specific deterioration patterns of various characteristics and dimensions. Conservation demands comprise treatments ranging from structural strengthening of the porous structures to the removal of larger defects such as fissures, cracks, detachments and delaminations. In order to match specific conservation demands of deteriorated plaster, wall painting, and stucco work a ‘module system’ for modifying the nanosols was developed.
