Ultrasonic Waves and Strength Reduction Indexes for the Assessment of the Advancement of Deterioration Processes in Travertines from Pamukkale and Hierapolis (Turkey)

Frost and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) are the most detrimental factors to travertine durability, significantly accelerating deterioration when the stone is already weathered. This finding comes from geomechanical research on Turkish travertines from Pamukkale and Hierapolis, which introduced quantitative indicators—ultrasonic waves index (I Vp) and strength reduction index (I Rc)—to predict long-term structural degradation under environmental stress. The study tested resistance to salt crystallization, SO₂ exposure, frost, and high temperatures, following European standards. Results highlight that these indices can effectively forecast the rate of destructive phenomena, offering a tool for assessing travertine longevity in architectural applications.

Bobrowska, A., & Domonik, A. (2015). Ultrasonic Waves and Strength Reduction Indexes for the Assessment of the Advancement of Deterioration Processes in Travertines from Pamukkale and Hierapolis (Turkey). Studia Geotechnica et Mechanica, 37(3), 3–9. https://doi.org/10.1515/sgem-2015-0027