Decay

Decay of limestone
Photo credit: V. Vergès-Belmin

Description

Stone deterioration, or decay, occurs form many reasons. The physical actions of sun, rain, wind, and temperature changes cause internal stresses and surface abrasion that can result in disintegration. Additionally, the chemical actions of hydration and oxidation can slowly dissolve and weaken some stones. Also, pollutants, such as smoke, fumes, acids and particulates, can react with and degrade many stones

Resources and Citations

• ICOMOS-ISCS: Illustrated glossary on stone deterioration patterns