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Title: Thin-section microscopy of decayed crystalline marble from the garden sculptures of Schoenbrunn Palace in Vienna

Journal Article · · Materials Characterization
 [1];  [2]
  1. Institute of Conservation and Restoration, University of Applied Arts Vienna A-1013 Vienna, Salzgries 14/4 (Austria)
  2. Institute for Applied Microbiology, Department of Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna A-1190 Vienna, Muthgasse 18 (Austria)

Sterzing marble, a crystalline white marble used in the late-Baroque garden sculptures of Schoenbrunn Palace in Vienna, was studied by means of thin-section and scanning electron microscopy in order to obtain a better understanding of its surface decay caused by atmospheric weathering. Following the classification of distinct phenomena of deterioration by visual on-site inspection, the microstructural features including surface erosion, micro-cracking, soiling, black crust formation, and microbiological infestation are exemplified by microscopical images and are briefly discussed. The results proved useful for evaluating and understanding the various types of marble decay for creating a safer basis for establishing the procedural principles aimed at conservation and maintenance of the sculptures.

OSTI ID:
21062168
Journal Information:
Materials Characterization, Vol. 58, Issue 11-12; Conference: 10. Euroseminar on microscopy applied to building materials (EMABM), Paisley, Scotland (United Kingdom), 21-24 Jun 2005; Other Information: DOI: 10.1016/j.matchar.2007.04.014; PII: S1044-5803(07)00158-1; Copyright (c) 2007 Elsevier Science B.V., Amsterdam, The Netherlands, All rights reserved; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 1044-5803
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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