DIAGNOSTIC STRATEGIES FOR PLANNING OF CONSERVATION INTERVENTIONS AT THE ACROPOLIS OF ERIMOKASTRO, RHODES

E.T. Delegou1*, K.C. Labropoulos1, E. Ksinopoulou1, E. Tsilimantou2, E.Oikonomopoulou2, J. Sayas2, A. Bakolas1, A. Moropoulou1

1 School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 9, Iroon Polytechniou str., 15773 Athens, Greece

2 School of Rural and Surveying Engineering, National Technical University of Athens 9, Iroon Polytechniou str., 15773 Athens, Greece

*Tel: +30-210-772-3276, Fax: +30-210-772-3215, e-mail: edelegou@central.ntua.gr

ABSTRACT 

In this work, diagnostic strategies involving the application of in-situ non-destructive testing and in-lab techniques, GIS modeling and analysis operations were utilized for planning of materials and conservation interventions at the walls of Erimokastro Acropolis Rhodes. Polarized optical microscopy mercury porosimetry, scanning electron microscopy, determination of total soluble salt content, fibre-optic microscopy, ultrasonics and infra-red thermography were used to characterize the building materials and their decay products. Results indicated the presence of grey compact limestone displaying few grey-brown inclusions of calcite rich hornstone, and off-white porous fossiliferous limestone. Both stone types displayed extensive biodecay, cracking, holes and cavities, whereas alveolar disease was only evident at off-white limestone. Based on these results, materials and conservation interventions were suggested. GIS thematic maps were developed by using diagnostic study results as attribute data sets that describe the characteristics of the spatial entities. Using geoprocessing analysis the thematic map of conservation interventions was produced, incorporating attribute data from both materials and decay themes. This approach provides the basis for the compatibility assessment of conservation interventions (whenever applied) and for monitoring of the preservation state of the building materials which are the necessary steps for the sustainable protection of the site.

Key-words: non-destructive techniques, decay, conservation, GIS, archaeological site