Detection of Delamination in Wall Paintings by Ground Penetrating Radar

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) emerges as a powerful tool for detecting delamination in wall paintings, particularly in culturally significant sites like the Potala Palace. Delamination, a prevalent issue causing separation between plaster and support surfaces, poses severe threats to the integrity of ancient murals, often leading to surface cracks or complete paint loss. This study highlights GPR's effectiveness in identifying such structural weaknesses, which affect over 75% of wall paintings in Tibetan heritage sites due to environmental degradation, biological factors, and material aging. By analyzing electromagnetic wave behavior through different media, the research provides a non-invasive method for conservationists to assess and monitor delamination risks without physical damage.

Wang, W. (2011). Detection of Delamination in Wall Paintings by Ground Penetrating Radar. Behaviour of Electromagnetic Waves in Different Media and Structures. https://doi.org/10.5772/16351