| This primary goal of this thesis was to develop an improved concrete block mix and associated fabrication process for replacement textile blocks at the Frank Lloyd Wright Freeman House. Desired characteristics for the replacement mix were water resistance and consistency with the home's historic fabric and historic preservation standards. Issues explored include the use of modern-day mixture materials, block formation methods, compressive strength, material slump, water permeability, and color comparison.;The house is one of four Wright-designed concrete block homes, using pre-cast sixteen-inch square blocks for both enclosure and structure. The house has experienced significant damage to its exterior from airborne pollutants and earthquakes. The porous blocks allow water penetration, rusting the steel rods woven between the blocks. This has led to block cracking and, consequently, weakened the system's structural stability.;Appendices include photos and videos of the block manufacturing process and the concrete material testing. |
