Hygrothermal Performance of Hydrophobized Brick and Mortar: Energy Renovation Through Internal Insulation - Can Hydrophobization Improve the Moisture Safety?

Denmark is targeting to be independent of fossil fuels by the year 2050. Although the use of renewable energy sources will be increased, it also requires the energy demand from buildings to be reduced. Further, the maintenance of cultural heritage is of primary importance, which often leaves internal insulation as the only feasible option. However, internal insulation is not necessarily moisture safe in Denmark, mainly due to the high wind-driven rain load. A transparent coating for exterior use in buildings could be the solution.

This PhD thesis investigates whether hydrophobization is able to create a transparent coating against rain by leaving the wall elements, brick and mortar, to breathe. It also investigates whether this transparent coating can stay durable in the long run. Based on these studies it discusses whether a robust energy renovation of solid masonry walls is possible by combining hydrophobization with internal insulation.