Laboratory studies on the consolidation and protection of calcareous materials in the Cathedral of Oviedo. Part I

Abstract

The suitability of some consolidating and protecting products, to be applied to the deteriorated calcareous stones of the Cathedral of Oviedo, is presented. A proposed procedure and methodology for evaluating that suitability is also described. The studied stones, limestones and dolomites, have been experimentally subjected in laboratory to some treatment products: ethyl silicate, oligomeric silane and silicon resin. Some physical properties of those stones were evaluated before and after the treatments with the mentioned products. Those properties (porosity, water absorption, compressive strength and deformability, mechanical microfissuration threshold, acoustic emission, etc.) were selected according to the significative role they play on the process of stone alteration or in supporting the proposed conclusions.