1. Using the Rilem Test Contents: Surface Preparation: Test Procedures:
Vertical Rilem Test Tube
Horizontal Rilem Test Tube
* Putty is not included
Surface Preparation:
Clean the surface by removing loose cement mortar. Remove dust by air blower / industrial vacuum cleaner, followed by high pressure water-jet cleaning. Allow the surface to dry.
** Testing procedures are the same for both the Vertical and Horizontal Rilem Test Tubes. **
Test Procedures:
Affix tube by interposing a tape of putty between the flat, circular brim of the pipe and the surface of the masonry material.
To ensure adhesion, apply manual pressure on the cylinder.
Add water through the exposed end of the pipe until the column reaches the "0" gradation mark.
Test Results:
Measure the amount of water absorbed by the material during 5, 10, 15, 20, 30 and 60-minute intervals to provide the most useful data.
The porosity of the material being tested will determine the appropriate period of time.
** In many cases, it may be important to measure water absorption through the mortar joint as well as the surface of the brick (or natural stone) substrate. **