Journal
STUDIES IN CONSERVATION
Volume 62, Issue 8, Pages 474-493Publisher
ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
DOI: 10.1080/00393630.2016.1217694
Keywords
Magnesian lime; Efflorescence; Incrustation; Epsomite; Nesquehonite; Dypingite; Hydromagnesite; Nitratine
Funding
- Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Saluzzo
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An in-depth scientific survey revealed the deterioration mechanisms affecting the 'Santa Maria della Stella' church in Saluzzo, Italy, where various salt crystallization processes are strongly damaging the building materials and artworks. Rainwater seepage permeates the vault and interior, causing: (1) epsomite growth as interstitial columnar crystals (resulting in pictorial coating detachment) or superficial, powdery efflorescence; (2) formation of nesquehonite/hydromagnesite crusts on wall paintings; and (3) nitratine growth causing pigment staining and detachment. These processes involve selective Mg2+ mobilization from magnesian-lime mortars and bacterial-induced formation of nitrates from guano, with consequent precipitation of degrading salts. The study confirms how characterization of all deterioration agents is fundamental to planning a viable cultural heritage conservation and restoration programme.
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