Degradation of Two Historic Buildings in Northern Spain by Formation of Oxalate and Sulphate-Based Compounds

A study on the degradation of historic buildings in northern Spain reveals that microbial activity leads to the formation of oxalate compounds (weddellite and whewellite) on dolomitic rock surfaces, while atmospheric pollution causes gypsum formation on lime plasters used as protective coatings. Researchers analyzed samples from the Romanesque Church of Torme and Burgos Cathedral using advanced techniques such as microscopy, spectrometry, diffraction, spectroscopy, and thermal analysis. The findings highlight the distinct degradation processes affecting rural and urban environments, with implications for conservation strategies.

Duran, A., Robador, M. D., & Perez-Rodriguez, J. L. (2011). Degradation of Two Historic Buildings in Northern Spain by Formation of Oxalate and Sulphate-Based Compounds. International Journal of Architectural Heritage, 6(3), 342–358. https://doi.org/10.1080/15583058.2010.551447