The article discusses the significance of accelerated ageing tests in evaluating the response of building materials to weathering, focusing on factors such as solar radiation, temperature, relative humidity, and capillary rising. Researchers aim to simulate realistic environmental conditions in laboratory settings to understand the decay processes of building stones. The study emphasises the use of photogrammetry for morphological characterization and the influence of water salinity on stone decay patterns. It also highlights the need to verify the results of accelerated testing by comparing them with data from natural outdoor weathering to ensure the reliability of the findings.
The research findings indicate that accelerated ageing tests can replicate realistic climate conditions, leading to observations of decohesion, decay patinas, and slight mechanical resistance deterioration in building stones. The effects of salt crystallisation and solubilization on stone decay are influenced by temperature and humidity cycles, with the formation of ‘noble patina’ on biomicrites being noted. Colour variations in different lithologies, such as sandstone, biomicrite, biolitite, rhyodacite, marble, and basalt, were observed during solar radiation tests, with shifts towards red or green tones depending on the material.
Overall, the study underscores the importance of accurately simulating environmental conditions in accelerated ageing tests to predict the response of building materials to weathering accurately. By combining laboratory experiments with natural outdoor exposure data, researchers can enhance the reliability and applicability of their findings in the conservation and maintenance of architectural heritage and contemporary structures.
