Determination of Water Vapor Transmission Properties of Sandstones in the Yungang Grottoes

Research reveals that water vapor transmission in the sandstone of Yungang Grottoes significantly increases with rising relative humidity due to capillary condensate flow. The study found a strong correlation between diffusion coefficients and open porosity, indicating that weathering processes alter these parameters, contributing to material deterioration. Using the wet-cup method, scientists measured water vapor transmission under varying environmental conditions, uncovering complex microstructural dynamics that affect diffusion paths. These findings highlight the vulnerability of sandstone heritage sites to moisture-induced damage, offering critical insights for conservation strategies.

Zhang, Y., Zheng, Y., & Huang, J. (2022). Determination of Water Vapor Transmission Properties of Sandstones in the Yungang Grottoes. International Journal of Architectural Heritage, 18(3), 357–369. https://doi.org/10.1080/15583058.2022.2147878