Long-term environmental monitoring for preventive conservation of external historical plasterworks

In this study, an analysis of the environmental conditions in a Csa climatic zone for the conser-vation of plasterwork of the Real Alc acute accent azar of Seville is carried out. The measurements obtained from in-situ monitoring are compared with the measurements provided by AEMET (State Mete-orological Agency in Spain) during the reference year and the study is completed by estimating future environmental conditions using two alternative approaches: a morphing process from the EPW of the climatic zone and the application of M5P data mining algorithms.An optimal temperature range is established for the conservation of the plasterwork that prevents their dehydration or the freezing of water particles contained. The transformation of gypsum into bassanite, the risks associated with exposures to high relative humidity and the consequences of the slight hygroscopicity of the material and the environmental conditions that must be developed to favor the growth of mold on the surface or the cracking of polychromies that embellish these plaster decorations on numerous occasions are analyzed. The results ob-tained allow us to establish preventive conservation measures not only on the plasterwork but also on the Real Alc acute accent azar of Seville and that architectural heritage located in the subtropical dry-summer climate.

Automated summary

This study analyzes the environmental conditions for the conservation of plasterwork in the Real Alcázar of Seville in a Csa climatic zone. In-situ monitoring measurements are compared with data provided by AEMET, and future environmental conditions are estimated using two alternative approaches. An optimal temperature range is determined to prevent dehydration or freezing of the plasterwork, and various risks and consequences associated with the material and environmental conditions are analyzed. The results provide guidance for preventive conservation measures for the plasterwork and other architectural heritage in the subtropical dry-summer climate.