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Durability of carbonate rock as building stone with comments on its preservation

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Environmental Geology

Abstract

Carbonate rocks have been extensively used as building stones because of their availability, workability, and attractiveness. Unfortunately, however, some stones suffer from chemical attack or freeze-thaw activity. The environmental affects, especially those due to pollution of the atmosphere, are discussed in terms of weathering processes, salt crystallization, and acid deposition. A review of some recent research in relation to deterioration of stone in urban environments is given and carbonate rocks are classified in relation to position within a building, geographical location, and degree of pollution. Some comments on stone preservation are provided, especially in terms of the properties a preservative should possess.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geology and Applied Geology, University of Natal, Durban, South Africa

    F. G. Bell

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  1. F. G. Bell
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Bell, F.G. Durability of carbonate rock as building stone with comments on its preservation. Geo 21, 187–200 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00775905

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00775905

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