journal article·2025-08-03Open access

Durability Analysis of Brick-Faced Clay-Core Walls in Traditional Residential Architecture in Quanzhou, China

Yuhong Ding, Ruiming Guan, Li Chen, Jinxuan Wang, Yangming Zhang, Yili Fu, Canjin Zhang

Coatings· Volume 15· Issue 8

Abstract

This study analyzes the durability of brick-faced clay-core walls (BCWs) in the traditional residential architecture of Quanzhou—a UNESCO World Heritage City. Taking the northern gable of Ding Gongchen’s former residence as an example, the mechanical properties, microscopic structure, and changes in chemical symbol, oxides and minerals of the red bricks and clay-cores were analyzed using finite element mechanics analysis (FEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results indicate a triple mechanism: (1) The collaborative protection and reinforcement mechanism of “brick-wrapped-clay”. (2) The infiltration and destruction mechanism of external pollutants. (3) The material stability mechanism of silicate minerals. Therefore, the key to maintaining the durability of BCWs lies in the synergistic effect of brick and clay materials and the stability of silicate mineral materials, providing theoretical and methodological support for sustainable research into brick and clay constructions.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Building materials and conservation · Hygrothermal properties of building materials · Masonry and Concrete Structural Analysis

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Faculty of Humanities and Arts, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wailong, Taipa, Macau 999078, China

College of Civil Engineering, Liming Vocational University, No. 298 Tonggang West Street, Quanzhou 362000, China

School of Architecture and Urban-Rural Planning, Fuzhou University, No. 2 Xueyuan Road, Minhou University City New District, Fuzhou 350108, China

College of Human Settlements and Environment, Quanzhou Vocational and Technical University, Daxue Road, Neikeng Town, Jinjiang 362268, China

Institute for Research on Portuguese-Speaking Countries, City University of Macau, Xu Risheng Yin Gong Road, Taipa, Macau 999078, China

Quanzhou Artisan Architectural Design Co., Ltd., No. 16, Fuchuo Lane, Licheng District, Quanzhou 362000, China

School of Management, Xiamen University, No. 422 Siming South Road, Siming District, Xiamen 361005, China

Funding

Quanzhou Science and Technology Plan Project: Research on Gao Chi of Traditional Minnan Architecture Based on Digital Technology

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