ABSTRACT
This chapter presents preliminary results of the ongoing research on grout formulations for the conservation of plaster on earthen support carried out at the Architectural Conservation Laboratory at Tongji University, Shanghai. Micro-lime dispersed in propanol with a particle size range of 1-2 micrometer is therefore utilized in the described tests. Observations during the testing of grout formulations using micro-lime mixed with clay soil appear to show promising results in workability and performance; however, the grout performance is sensitive to climatic conditions. Micro fissures in the grout and between grout and old materials are minimal and it appears that they do not have an impact on the overall stabilization effect. Micro-lime in the area of stone and lime plaster consolidation, calcium hydroxide nano-particles has shown good results to stabilize weakened historic fabric. All grout formulations were prepared by mixing the dry components first, then adding micro-lime and slowly adding additional isopropanol.
