Search Results (3)

The aim of this paper is to analyze the construction materials (mortars) of an architectural monument (Deserted Tower (Lilly Tower) from Corvins’ Castle, Romania). The mortars were characterized following a multidisciplinary approach, combining macroscopic observation with petrographic microscopy, mineralogical analysis (X-ray diffraction) and elemental analysis (X-ray fluorescence), hydric properties, and color of representative samples of the monument. The results revealed the use of gypsum mortars (produced by lumps with higher Fe content), with minor concentrations of crystalline dolomites of the Southern Carpathians, calcite, and quartz. The materials’ effective porosity and their water absorption capacity were high. A possible solution to consolidate the damaged area with some consolidation products (hydroxyapatite carbonate and its derivatives with Ag and Sr) was investigated, too. The interactions between the mortar’s specimens and the effectiveness of the consolidation treatments were evaluated by physico-chemical analyses (molecular structure by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF), dynamic light scattering (DLS)), morphological characterization by microscopic techniques as SEM-EDS, TEM, and physical and mechanical investigations (peeling test and compressive strength). Results were drawn based on historical, in situ observations, and analytical data, and put into evidence the composition, high weathering degree, and the possibility to surface consolidate with Sr-CHAp. Full article

Corvin Castle, located in Hunedoara County (Transylvania), is an important Romanian cultural site. Originally, a fort constructed in the 14th century, it was first converted into a castle by Ioan de Hunedoara in the 15th century, frequently changing owners (with significant construction in the 15th and 17th centuries) until it was abandoned in the mid-19th century. After undergoing various ill-fated reconstruction efforts in the late 19th century, the castle reopened in the 1950s when the Romanian government renewed its interest in cultural sites and undertook a series of sparsely-documented archaeological investigations and conservation projects. Presently, restoration efforts require renewed investigation of Corvin Castle’s construction and history. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is a promising tool for investigating the construction phases of heritage structures like Corvin Castle, where invasive methods are inappropriate and extensive historical modification has left incomplete records. In 2017, a comprehensive GPR survey of the castle was conducted. The survey recognizes features mentioned in texts, discovers previously unknown constructions, locates areas of moisture ingress around the courtyard, and identifies the extent and composition of the building foundations. Information gained from these scans, especially combined with printed sources, is an asset in planning restoration efforts and understanding the effects of past modifications. Full article