Different decay patterns observed in a nineteenth-century building (Palma, Spain)

Area of Science:

• Building materials science
• Environmental science
• Conservation science

Background:

• Historic buildings face decay from environmental factors.
• Sant Pere Seminary in Palma, Spain, exhibits stone deterioration.
• Proximity to the sea and urban pollution are potential factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of atmospheric pollutants and climate on stone decay.
• To analyze the composition of crusts on a decayed column.
• To understand the synergistic effects contributing to deterioration.

Main Methods:

• Sample collection from internal and external crusts on all four sides of the column.
• Analysis using thermal analysis, X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and ion chromatography.
• Comparative analysis of samples from different column sides.

Main Results:

• Significant differences observed in the decay across the four sides of the column.
• High levels of carbonate stone sulfation detected in all analyzed samples.
• Evidence of synergistic effects between atmospheric factors and micropollutants.
• High uptake of atmospheric particulate matter on the external surfaces of black crusts.

Conclusions:

• Atmospheric pollutants and climatic conditions synergistically accelerate stone decay in historic structures.
• Sulfation and particulate matter accumulation are key indicators of deterioration.
• Understanding these factors is crucial for effective building conservation strategies.