ABSTRACT
This chapter provides initial experiments for the chemical demolition of unit masonry before restoration. Specifically, trial hole layouts for small wall samples were tested in a laboratory environment. The chapter introduces initial steps towards developing a procedure for the non-percussive demolition of such a wall and observations on the progressive nature of cracking in such arrangements. Soundless Chemical Demolition Agents (SCDA) work effectively in environmentally sensitive conditions as an alternative to traditional demolition methods. Research has provided guidelines for the hole diameter, spacing, depth, edge distance, water content, and ambient temperature to be used for demolition of concrete and rock, but no industry recommendations exist on how to use SCDAs for masonry demolition. Depending on SCDA type, temperature, hole geometry, surrounding material, and slurry composition, cracks may develop in as soon as afew hours or in as much as several days.
