Monitoring the Deterioration of Masonry Relics at a UNESCO World Heritage Site

A five-year deterioration of outdoor-exposed marble artifacts at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou, was observed due to temperature fluctuations and acid rain. The study employed a systematic monitoring approach using non-destructive testing equipment such as optical microscopes, ultrasonic pulse wave devices, Schmidt hammers, surface roughness testers, thermohygrometers, rain gauges, and air quality monitors. High-throughput sequencing technology was also utilized to analyze the distribution and diversity of microorganisms on masonry surfaces. The research found that deterioration patterns vary with material types and preservation conditions, while microbial growth correlates positively with environmental factors. This comprehensive monitoring method provides a reference for assessing the health state of cultural heritage sites.

Wu, Y., Li, Q., Tong, H., He, Z., Qu, J., & Zhang, B. (2021). Monitoring the Deterioration of Masonry Relics at a UNESCO World Heritage Site. KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering, 25(8), 3097–3106. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12205-021-1716-z