Study of Efflorescence in Clay Bricks

During the winter of 1962-63, field observations in several locations in the Atlantic area revealed a higher than average occurrence of efflorescence on walls of clay brick masonry. The severity of the efflorescence seemed more closely related to specific bricks than to mortar composition, type of construction, etc. It was suggested that bricks were contributing to the problem either by providing (a) a source of soluble salts, or (b) satisfactory media for easy passage of salts in solution from mortar and/or back-up material through the walls. A study was, therefore, undertaken to investigate the efflorescing tendencies of clay bricks commonly used in masonry construction in the area.Peer reviewed: NoNRC publication: Ye