Preserving the Great Mosque of Córdoba (Spain): Characterization of Natural Stone Based on Rebound Hammer and Ultrasonic Tests

Abstract

The preservation of The Great Mosque of Córdoba (Spain) as a carrier of Andalusian collective memory requires innovative approaches to assess and maintain its structural health. This research centers on two non-destructive methods: direct ultrasound testing and rebound hammer. Laboratory tests were performed on natural stone provided by the primary material supplier for the Mosque’s restoration and rehabilitation works. Non-destructive and destructive tests were carried out over 10 ashlars and 100 cubic and prismatic specimens, which were cut from the ashlars. Tests were conducted in multiple directions to investigate stone anisotropy. Destructive testing indicated isotropy, but ultrasound test results disagreed. Sensitivity analysis of specimen dimensions affected result dispersion, but not average properties.

Keywords

• Mosque of Córdoba
• natural stone
• ultrasonic tests
• rebound hammer
• anisotropy