Prof. Dr. Gerald Ziegenbalg

Wall salts are among the biggest problems encountered both in the restoration of historic buildings and in the refurbishment of older properties. Complete removal is often not feasible, either technically or economically. But what options are available? When can sacrificial and restoration plasters, as well as compresses, be used – and when do they reach their limits? Is it possible to stabilise salts ‘in situ’, and what methods are available for this? These questions, along with key principles regarding salts, salt damage and their treatment, will be presented and discussed using detailed examples.

The correct application of a stone consolidant is crucial to the success of a restoration. This also applies to CaLoSiL® (nanocalcium), which has been used successfully for more than 20 years to consolidate plaster, mortar and stone, as well as for wall paintings and sgraffito. Pre-treatment, the selection of the most suitable concentration, the method of application and post-treatment are therefore the focus of the seminar. All stages of the process will be demonstrated through practical experiments and explained in detail. Another key focus will be the question: when is it advisable to combine CaLoSiL® with traditional silicic acid esters or other stone consolidants, and what is the correct procedure in such cases? Participants will also have the opportunity to test the application of CaLoSiL® on their own samples.

A fee-paying seminar requiring advance registration

The seminar covers various topics, including the current state of knowledge and product development in the field of nano-lime-based mineral stabilisation, the areas of application for pozzolans in mortars, the practical use of laser cleaning on weathered natural stone surfaces, and the new BIV Technical Rule 4.02 on mapping and documentation in natural stone restoration, which was drawn up with the support of the Association of Monument Conservation Authorities.