Chemical and mineralogical characterization as a reliable approach for assessing the mechanical properties of ancient mortars and masonry: A case study of the bell tower of Melfi Cathedral (Basilicata, Italy)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21014/actaimeko.v14i4.2128Keywords:
diagnostics, masonry strength test, mortars, seismic vulnerability assessment, standards application, v, norms, optical microscopy, petrography, X-ray diffraction analysis, thermogravimetry, cultural heritageAbstract
Construction techniques employed in historical buildings reflect the diversity of historical and cultural eras, constituting tangible evidence that must be preserved and transmitted. Their preservation requires a complete and detailed understanding of the materials used. Therefore, several investigation methodologies are addressed, carefully chosen in order to provide useful data for specific and effective restoration interventions, using minimal invasiveness.
In Italy, diagnostic services in the construction and cultural heritage sectors are regulated by NTC 2018 (Technical Standard for Construction). These technical standards, along with UNI (Italian Standards Body) norms, describe several investigation techniques for the characterization of construction materials. However, the described methodologies are not always applicable or suitable for specific purposes, particularly for the determination of the mechanical strength class of the masonry in historic and protected buildings.
In the present article, we present an alternative and valid methodology, focusing on the strength classification of the masonry in the medieval bell tower of the Cathedral of Melfi (Basilicata, Italy). The study includes chemical and physical analyses of mortars and stone bricks using laboratory micro-destructive techniques such as optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analyses. The results evidence the validity of the micro-invasive scientific method, providing reliable data that is useful for specific and effective restoration and maintenance interventions, without the need for highly invasive and destructive approaches.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Chiara Gallo, Giada Maria Chiara Gemelli, Sara Carbone, Ylenia Caso, Marianna Sergio, Nicolino Messuti, Carmine Napoli, Eduardo Caliano
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