Efflorescence
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In chemistry, efflorescence is the migration of a salt to the surface of a porous material, where it forms a coating. The essential process involves the dissolving of an internally held salt in water
Secondary efflorescence on the dam of the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant.
Primary efflorescence on a brick wall in Germany.
Primary efflorescence on a firestop mortar at Mississauga Civic Centre in Mississauga, Ontario City Hall.
Substantial primary efflorescence on a building in Denver, Colorado.
Calthemite
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Calthemite is a secondary deposit, derived from concrete, lime, mortar or other calcareous material outside the cave environment. Calthemites grow on or under man-made structures and mimic the shapes
Efflorescence
…concrete masonry unit water repellent, as CSD particles are well distributed in the pores of the unit to interfere with the capillary movement of water. Calthemite is also a secondary deposit derived from concrete, mortar or lime, which can be mistakenly assumed to be efflorescence. Calthemites are usually deposited…
Calthemite straw stalactite growing from the concrete ceiling of an undercover car-park
Calthemite straw stalactites, the rightmost example demonstrating bending due to the direction of air currents during its formation
Calthemite flowstone on outside of concrete water tank
Calthemite straw stalactites can grow up to 2 mm per day in favourable conditions. This one is growing in an undercover concrete car-park.