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External and internal microclimatic conditions, biodeterioration, anthropogenic factors, etc, influence the natural stone support for artifacts and built heritage. Based on this fact, the present study explores the effectiveness of nano-TiO2 in preserving and enhancing the durability of natural stone used in the façades of heritage buildings, focusing on the Markovits-Mathéser House in Oradea Municipality, Romania. The investigation involved treating rock samples (fossiliferous limestone) with 2% and 5% nano-TiO2 solutions and subjecting them to simulated extreme climatic conditions for the analyzed area in a controlled climatic chamber for six months. The treated samples demonstrated a significantly higher compressive strength than untreated benchmarks. SEM analyses confirmed that nano-TiO2 formed a protective layer, filling micro-cracks and pores, thereby enhancing the stone's resistance to environmental stressors. The study also found that the nanoparticle coating maintained its integrity under extreme temperature and humidity variations, with only a slight decrease in surface coverage. These findings suggest that nano-TiO2 coatings significantly improve heritage building materials' mechanical properties and longevity. However, the study highlights the importance of careful application and long-term evaluation to ensure environmental and health safety. Overall, nano-TiO2 presents a promising solution for the conservation of cultural heritage, offering enhanced durability and protection against climatic and environmental challenges. Further research is recommended to optimize application workflow and formulations for broader and more effective use in heritage conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

External and internal microclimatic conditions, biodeterioration, anthropogenic factors, etc, influence the natural stone support for artifacts and built heritage. Based on this fact, the present study explores the effectiveness of nano-TiO2 in preserving and enhancing the durability of natural stone used in the façades of heritage buildings, focusing on the Markovits-Mathéser House in Oradea Municipality, Romania. The investigation involved treating rock samples (fossiliferous limestone) with 2% and 5% nano-TiO2 solutions and subjecting them to simulated extreme climatic conditions for the analyzed area in a controlled climatic chamber for six months. The treated samples demonstrated a significantly higher compressive strength than untreated benchmarks. SEM analyses confirmed that nano-TiO2 formed a protective layer, filling micro-cracks and pores, thereby enhancing the stone’s resistance to environmental stressors. The study also found that the nanoparticle coating maintained its integrity under extreme temperature and humidity variations, with only a slight decrease in surface coverage. These findings suggest that nano-TiO2 coatings significantly improve heritage building materials’ mechanical properties and longevity. However, the study highlights the importance of careful application and long-term evaluation to ensure environmental and health safety. Overall, nano-TiO2 presents a promising solution for the conservation of cultural heritage, offering enhanced durability and protection against climatic and environmental challenges. Further research is recommended to optimize application workflow and formulations for broader and more effective use in heritage conservation.

Natural stones used as construction materials in outdoor applications and the rock environment in rock engineering applications are subject to weakening such as freeze-thaw (F-T) and thermal shock (TS) due to weather conditions. Predicting the mechanical effects of F-T and TS weathering is important for the design on rock engineering. While the change in mechanical properties can be determined by F-T and TS simulating with experimental studies, it can also be predicted with simple models in the literature and determining initial conditions. While the properties of weakened rock are determined from the models proposed in the literature, a rock-specific experimental study is needed and precise results cannot be obtained. Instead, the predicting of F-T and TS weathering on rocks by using deep learning-based algorithms enables better data for design. In this study, the effects of deterioration on physical and mechanical properties of natural stones after F-T and TS weathering was investigated with experimental simulation. The samples of 15 different rock type were subjected to F-T and TS process for 15, 30 and 45 cycles following standard methods in experimental study. The changes of apparent porosity, water absorption by weight, P-wave velocity, uniaxial compressive strength and elastic module of rocks after each process were investigated and analysed with different deep learning algorithms to predict these properties. It has been determined that AdaBoost is the best algorithm for predicting the properties of natural stone after F-T and TS weathering. Additionally, the stress distribution was modelled numerically to investigate the effect of F-T and TS weathering on rock samples. The study shows that deep learning-based algorithms can be used as an auxiliary tool in prediction in order to perform more precise studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quarry landscapes of Virolahti, Uusikaupunki, and Vehmaa are results of quarry operations during the most important periods of natural stone quarrying in Finland. The quarry landscape in Virolahti was formed in connection to the quarrying of red Virolahti pyterlite for the construction of St. Petersburg in Russia from the middle of 1700s to the beginning of the 1900s, while in Uusikaupunki, the quarry landscape is connected to the start of the modern Finnish stone industry and the National Romantic architecture at the beginning of the 1900s. The quarry landscape in Vehmaa is related to the start of the modern Finnish stone industry and export of Finnish granite at the beginning of the 1900s. In Virolahti, several small quarries can be seen, while in Vehmaa, a tendency towards fewer, but larger quarries start to emerge. In each area, human settlement was formed around the quarries. The geological basis for all areas is a rock type suitable for natural stone quarrying. The geotechnical features of each rock type indicate high resistance to wear and the products from these areas are early examples of durable construction. The quarry landscapes represent well the typical quarrying technology of the time and its development from channelling by chisels through hand drilling to mechanical drilling and blasting. The quarry areas form unique industrial and cultural heritage landscapes in Finland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural stone is a pivotal element in shaping local architecture and defining the region’s characteristics. While numerous studies delve into Latvia’s architectural artistry and historical discourse, any comprehensive study summarising the distinctive architectural stones, their utilisation, and the challenges concerning their long-term preservation is still absent. The current study outlines Latvia’s architectural stone heritage, identifying granite, dolostone, and sandstone as the primary stone types used. Source areas of these major lithologies are discussed in the context of local geology as well as historical, political, and social development of the country. The importance of the original treatment of dolostones and sandstones used in finer architectural elements or sculptures is discussed in the context of their susceptibility to degradation, providing laboratory data to illuminate the distinctive characteristics of these two lithologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the key areas of industry is the extraction and processing of natural stone, which is marked by a variety of facing materials with a wide range of colours, which are known not only in Ukraine, but also around the world. Currently, out of 255 deposits of stone for facing, 136 are actively used, where various minerals are extracted, such as granite, granodiorite, enderbite, granosienite, sienite, quartz sienite, monzonite, gabbro, anorthosite, labradorite, sandstone, basalt, marble, marbled limestone, limestone, andesite and tuff. Due to the military action, the occupation of part of the territory and the destruction of infrastructure, the possibility of mining and exporting natural stone has significantly decreased. Many natural stone mining and processing plants were destroyed or forced to evacuate, resulting in job losses and reduced budget revenues. Logistical problems related to the blockade of seaports and damage to transport infrastructure significantly complicate and increase the cost of exporting natural stone. The publication found that the export of natural stone to traditional importing countries, such as Russia and Belarus, disappeared, which led to an increase in exports to European countries, but this market has its limitations and requires additional efforts to promote Ukrainian products. New sales markets have been identified, but their potential has not yet been fully revealed. The study showed that the export of natural stone from Ukraine in 2023 increased by 61% compared to 2022. This indicates an increase in demand for Ukrainian natural stone on the world market.

Natural stone has been used worldwide in the construction of archaeological and historical heritage. However, its preservation continues to be threatened by weathering and degradation phenomena. Water is widely recognized as the most threatening external component that contributes to stone deterioration, increasing the need for the development of protective hydrophobic coatings to eliminate water penetration. This study intends to contribute to the better understanding of natural stone treatment strategies to prevent water penetration and subsequent stone alteration by studying the effect of coating and stone substrate temperatures, and the number of coating applications, on the effectiveness, compatibility, and durability of commercial hydrophobic coatings. The results obtained revealed that while more than one application increases coating hydrophobic effectiveness, it frequently leads to changes in the aesthetic appearance of natural stone, including whitening and darkening of the substrate’s original hues. Improved hydrophobic effectiveness (maximum gain of ≈ 9%) is also achieved when applying the commercial coatings at 4 °C to natural stone substrates maintained at room temperature, conditions that are feasible to be used in real life. Additionally, the commercial coating composed of silane/siloxane with modified fluorinated additives was found to be the most effective and durable hydrophobic solution.

The paper deals with the geometrization of gabbroids of the eastern part of the Volodarsk-Volynskyi massif of basic rocks of the Korosten pluton on the basis of determining the spatial location, structure and interrelations of crystalline rock types. The most modern methods of digital geometrization were used in the work. Digital geometrization is the most modern method of geometrization of geochemical fields that uses computer technology to create digital models of the geochemical field. The spatial distribution of the compressive strength of the mineral in the dry and wet state, the spatial distribution of water absorption, ore content, and the degree of change in decorativeness were studied. Based on the data obtained, detailed models of the distribution of the main properties of gabbroids were created, and graphical and analytical dependencies were obtained, which contributes to the effective planning of natural stone extraction. The internal structure of the intrusions in the eastern part of the Volodarsk-Volynskyi massif of the Korosten pluton was also described. The obtained models can improve the accuracy of reserve estimation, optimize mining operations, and reduce mining costs, while ensuring the rational use of natural resources.

The publication examines the issue of the negative impact of noise on the human body, characterizes the main sources of noise during the process of stone cutting on disc stone cutting and edging machines. The main anti-noise measures that can be applied in the design of stone-working enterprises and their arrangement with production equipment and tools are given. Changes in the level of noise load during granite sawing with a diamond disk tool of various types were studied when adjusting the operating parameters of disk stone-cutting machines, in particular, when changing the feed rate and cutting depth in 1 pass. It was established that there is no regularity in the change of the noise level depending on the speed of the working feed of the machine and the depth of the cut. The peak values of the noise levels were determined for those types of diamond disc saws that were used in the research. The amount of noise reduction that can be achieved by replacing a standard diamond tool ("monodisk") with a silent diamond tool (for example, "sandwich" type) is calculated. It has been established that the use of silent saws for stone sawing allows reducing the noise level by an average of 8–10 dB. The main conclusions and recommendations regarding the use of a disc diamond tool when sawing natural stone to minimize the noise load are given.

Natural stone has been used worldwide in the construction of archaeological and historical heritage. However, its preservation continues to be threatened by weathering and degradation phenomena. Water is widely recognized as the most threatening external component that contributes to stone deterioration, increasing the need for the development of protective hydrophobic coatings to eliminate water penetration. This study intends to contribute to the better understanding of natural stone treatment strategies to prevent water penetration and subsequent stone alteration by studying the effect of coating and stone substrate temperatures, and the number of coating applications, on the effectiveness, compatibility, and durability of commercial hydrophobic coatings. The results obtained revealed that while more than one application increases coating hydrophobic effectiveness, it frequently leads to changes in the aesthetic appearance of natural stone, including whitening and darkening of the substrate's original hues. Improved hydrophobic effectiveness (maximum gain of ≈ 9%) is also achieved when applying the commercial coatings at 4 °C to natural stone substrates maintained at room temperature, conditions that are feasible to be used in real life. Additionally, the commercial coating composed of silane/siloxane with modified fluorinated additives was found to be the most effective and durable hydrophobic solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the thermal conductivity of natural stones (k) through regression analyses and artificial neural networks (ANN). In order to gather a sizable number of datasets for the aforementioned analytic methodologies, a thorough literature review was carried out. Based on different physicomechanical rock characteristics, like dry density (pd), effective porosity (ne), uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), and pulse wave velocity (Vp), seven estimated models (M1-M7) were created for the evaluation of k. The regression-based models (M1-M5) demonstrated that the considered rock properties influence the k of natural stones at different degrees. Notably, the ne and Vp were found to be highly correlative parameters for estimating the k of natural stones. A number of statistical indicators were used to assess the performance of the developed models. The statistical evaluations indicated that the ANN-based models (M6, M7) provided more consistent results than the M1-M5 models. In addition, the mathematical expressions for ANN-based models were also given in the present study to let users carry out them more efficiently. In this case, this study is thought to ensure applicable and comprehensible information on the heat conduction of natural stones and can be described as a research study on how to model the k of natural stones as a factor of various rock characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Anadolu University Journal of Art & Design / Sanat & Tasarım is the property of Anadolu University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

İş Sağlığı ve Güvenliği (İSG) önlemleri için yapılması gereken harcamalar işletmeler tarafından göz ardı edilmemelidir. Bu harcamalar, özellikle çok tehlikeli sınıfta yer alan ve iş kazası olabilirlik oranlarına göre tüm sektörler arasında ilk sırada yer alan madencilik sektörü için çok daha hayati öneme sahiptir. Bu çalışmada, öncelikle 2013-2022 yılları arasındaki, beş farklı ekonomik faaliyetten oluşan madencilik sektörüne ait Sosyal Güvenlik Kurumu (SGK) kayıtları incelenmiştir. Doğal taş sektörünün, en fazla çalışan sayısına sahip “diğer madencilik ve taş ocakçılığı” ekonomik faaliyeti içerisinde yer aldığı ve 10 yıllık iş kazası verilerine göre ölüm oranlarında “kömür ve linyit çıkarımından” sonra ikinci sırada yer aldığı tespit edilmiştir. İSG için yapılan harcamaların mali büyüklüğünü ve işletmeye sağladığı faydanın büyüklüğünü analiz etmek amacıyla, bir mermer fabrikasının 2020 yılındaki İSG harcamaları incelenmiştir. Yapılan değerlendirme sonucunda, İSG harcamalarının işletme cirosunun yaklaşık %0,5’ine karşılık geldiği tespit edilmiştir. Ayrıca, Çalışma ve Sosyal Güvenlik Bakanlığı (ÇSGB) tarafından hazırlanan “İş Sağlığı ve Güvenliği Fayda-Maliyet Analizi Proje Raporu” esas alınarak, işletmedeki İSG harcamaları için fayda-maliyet analizi yapılmış ve faydanın İSG maliyetinin 5,54 katı olduğu belirlenmiştir. Diğer madencilik ve taş ocakçılığı ekonomik faaliyetinde alınan İSG önlemlerinin ülke ekonomisine sağlayacağı faydanın ise 2023 yılı fiyatlarıyla ortalama 13 milyar TL olabileceği hesaplanmıştır. Sonuç olarak, İSG için yapılan harcamaların geleceğe yönelik büyük yatırımlar olacağı sayısal olarak ortaya konulmuştur.

Kültürel miras insanoğlunun bugüne kadar yapmış olduğu bütün üretim ve birikimlerin tümünü ifade etmektedir. Kültürel mirasın tarih boyunca inşa edilen anıt mimari eserlerinde yapı malzemesi olarak kullanılan doğal taş, geçmişten geleceğe süregelen kültür aktarım yolculuğunun temel unsuru olmuştur. Ancak doğal taşlarda meydana gelen bozulmalar, uzun vadede eserleri olumsuz etkileyebilen yahut eserin yok olmasına sebebiyet verebilen önemle üzerinde durulması gereken bir konudur. Bu sebeple mimari eserlerde yapı malzemesi olarak kullanılan doğal taşların korunması aynı zamanda bu eserlerin korunmasına da vesile olacaktır. Çalışma alanı olarak seçilen Afyonkarahisar Gedik Ahmet Paşa Cami mimarlık tarihimiz ve kültürümüzde önemli bir yeri olan anıt eserlerdendir. Cami yapıldığı günden bugüne kadar işlevini sürdürmüş ve kullanılmıştır. Günümüzde halen kullanımı devam eden yapıda iklimsel faktörler sebebi ile özellikle yapının beden duvarlarını oluşturan taş malzemede önemli ölçüde bozulmalar gözlemlenmektedir. Yapının fiziksel ömrünün uzatılması ve uzun yıllar ayakta kalarak gelecek nesillere aktarılabilmesi için muhtelif yenileme ve onarımların yapılması bir gerekliliktir. Bu noktada, öncelikle yapıdaki bozulmaların tespitleri önem arz etmektedir. Bu bakış açısı ile çalışmada, Afyonkarahisar Gedik Ahmet Paşa Cami’nin bozulmalarının gözleme dayalı olarak tespitinin yapılması amaçlanmaktadır. Çalışma sonucunda yapılan gözleme dayalı tespitlere göre Gedik Ahmet Paşa Cami’nin bünyesinde meydana gelen taş bozulmalarında biyolojik ve kimyasal bozulmalarla birlikte fiziksel hasarların da bulunduğu ortaya konulmuştur.

This report focuses on the occupational health risks associated with the use of artificial stones containing high levels of crystalline silica in the production of kitchen countertops. It presents the case of a 43-yr-old man who developed severe silicosis due to his occupation involving cutting and polishing quartz stone raw materials. A retrospective analysis of the patient's medical records and occupational history was conducted. The diagnosis of severe silicosis, moderate restrictive lung disease, and bilateral pneumothorax was based on clinical manifestations, pulmonary function test, radiological findings, and histological reports. The patient underwent lung transplantation, and his pulmonary function improved post-surgery. The study highlights the significant health risks associated with procedures involving artificial stones and emphasizes the importance of awareness and protective measures for employees and workers. Clinicians should be cautious when diagnosing respiratory symptoms in patients with a history of occupational exposure to artificial stones containing high levels of crystalline silica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of PLANARCH - Design & Planning Research is the property of Ataturk University Coordinatorship of Scientific Journals and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A growing number of geoheritage studies have examined the legacy of natural stone in urban settings, but research into the intersection of cultural and natural heritage (integrating the historical, social, and spiritual significance of stone acquired through the centuries) is relatively sparse. The purpose of the present study was to analyse the use of natural stone in the urban environment of Poznań in Poland over the past thousand years by merging geological, historical, and archaeological data. The results show that in cities that do not have sufficient local sources, complex arrangements of natural materials and the history of changing stone types have been conditioned by the location of state borders and the economic environment, and mediated through the cultural context of subsequent epochs, the preferences of ruling monarchs, the migration of stonemasons, and doctrines of national self-sufficiency. Natural stones in urban settings cannot, therefore, be regarded merely as ex situ geodiversity elements but rather as an interface between cultural and abiotic environments, a memory of past trading and cultural connections, and architectural trends. It is hoped that the integration of geological and cultural heritage will stimulate more comprehensive geoconservation efforts and contribute to the growth of geotourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abrasion resistance is one of the crucial parameters to consider when evaluating natural stone for use in public infrastructure with light traffic. The assessment and evaluation of abrasion parameters can be carried out according to the EN 14157 standard, using two typical natural stones from different sources in order to compare the necessary parameters. The parameters will be analysed in correlation with other factors in order to find optimizations. The results showed a significant correlation coefficient between the dry sample and water saturation tests. This suggests that the abrasion resistance of natural stone when dry is closely related to its resistance when saturated with water. This information is valuable in selecting appropriate natural stone materials for public infrastructure, as it provides insights into how the materials will perform under different conditions. In public squares, natural stone is often used as paving material because of its durability, resistance to weathering, aesthetics and other parameters. However, different types of natural stone have different levels of abrasion resistance, which can affect their suitability for use in public squares.

Copyright of Journal of Engineering & Architectural Faculty of Eskisehir Osmangazi University / Eskişehir Osmangazi Üniversitesi Mühendislik ve Mimarlık Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Eskisehir Osmangazi University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The abrasion resistance is one of the crucial parameters to consider when evaluating natural stone for use in public infrastructure with light traffic. The assessment and evaluation of abrasion parameters can be carried out according to the EN 14157 standard, using two typical natural stones from different sources in order to compare the necessary parameters. The parameters will be analysed in correlation with other factors in order to find optimizations. The results showed a significant correlation coefficient between the dry sample and water saturation tests. This suggests that the abrasion resistance of natural stone when dry is closely related to its resistance when saturated with water. This information is valuable in selecting appropriate natural stone materials for public infrastructure, as it provides insights into how the materials will perform under different conditions. In public squares, natural stone is often used as paving material because of its durability, resistance to weathering, aesthetics and other parameters. However, different types of natural stone have different levels of abrasion resistance, which can affect their suitability for use in public squares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of sludge from stone processing enterprises, especially the granodiorite sludge, is an intriguing and promising direction of research. This material has a unique composition that can significantly affect the properties and characteristics of ceramic products. The study of this aspect is key to understanding the potential of using sludge in ceramics and the opportunities for ecological optimization of production processes. The publication examines the possibility of using waste from stone processing enterprises as a filler for ceramic products, in particular ceramic bricks. Waste from the processing of Pokostiv granodiorite and Kateryniv labradorite was taken into the study. The waste was baked in its pure form and in mixtures with clay. Heating took place up to 950 °С. After sintering, the samples were tested for compression. Although the particle size of granite slurry is similar to that of clay and the chemical composition is quite similar, the sintering temperature of 950 ºC does not induce a similar effect in granite slurry as in clay, forming an internal structure with increased porosity and an increased number of interconnected pores. This has a direct effect on the compressive strength of the material. However, ceramics produced with a content of up to 90% granite slurry demonstrate satisfactory compressive strength and are therefore suitable for the production of ceramic bricks. The addition of up to 90% sludge gives the material unique characteristics that make it attractive for use, including reduced density and increased porosity. Both of these aspects greatly influence the potential heat and sound insulation characteristics, which are important in the ceramic industry. Reducing the density allows you to get a lighter material with acceptable characteristics and a lower load on the building structure due to the inclusion of waste.

In this study, the impact of aggressive environments on the color characteristics of natural stone was thoroughly investigated. The research focused on samples of facing stones, namely: Kamyanobridsky labradorite, Bukynske gabbro, Pokostivsky granodiorite, and Kapustinsky granite. Experiments to determine the color changes of natural stone were conducted at a temperature of 20 °C in aggressive environments such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) with a concentration of 40 g/L, sulfuric acid (H2SO4) – 40 g/L, and ammonium chloride (NaCl) – 40 g/L. The overall exposure duration was 50 days. Before placing the natural stone samples in an aggressive environment, their polished surface was scanned using a digital scanner. The average gloss value of the polished surface was also measured using a gloss meter BF-3. The natural stone samples were exposed to aggressive solutions, and measurements of gloss and color were taken every 240 hours. Prior to each new measurement of color characteristics and gloss of natural stone, they were thoroughly rinsed with distilled water and dried. In case of the appearance of white spots on the stone surface after drying, they were carefully wiped with a damp cloth. Scanned digital images were processed in specialized graphic programs to obtain color coordinates of the natural stone surface. The average value of color difference in the CIELab system was evaluated. As a result of the conducted research, it was determined that key changes in the color of stone facing surfaces occur within the first 30 days (720 hours) for rocks of the primary composition. This indicates the necessity of considering this period in project planning. Under the influence of aggressive solutions on rocks of the primary composition, during 720 hours, the most significant reduction in gloss indicators was observed when interacting with an acidic solution, specifically by 26 units, while the least impact was from the saline solution, reducing gloss by only 3.7 units. In rocks of acidic composition, the saline solution increased gloss by 3.3 units.

NMR is becoming increasingly popular for the investigation of building materials as it is a non-invasive technology that does not require any sample preparation nor causes damage to the material. Depending on the specific application it can offer insights into properties like porosity and spatial saturation degree as well as pore structure. Moreover it enables the determination of moisture transport properties and the (re-)distribution of internal moisture into different reservoirs or chemical phases upon damage and curing. However, as yet most investigations were carried out using devices originally either designed for geophysical applications or the analysis of rather homogeneous small scale (< 10 mL) samples. This paper describes the capabilities of an NMR tomograph, which has been specifically optimized for the investigation of larger, heterogeneous building material samples (diameters of up to 72 mm, length of up to 700 mm) with a high flexibility due to interchangeable coils allowing for a high SNR and short echo times (50–80 μs).

The article is dedicated to exploring the feasibility of using aluminum profiles for reinforcing natural stone products. The main objective of this study is to assess the potential use of aluminum profiles as a material for reinforcing natural stone. The article discusses the main advantages of aluminum profiles, such as their lightweight nature, strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. The manufacturing process and properties of aluminum profiles are analyzed, along with the question of the feasibility of their use for reinforcing natural stone products. Based on experimental research and comparative analysis, it has been determined that aluminum profiles can be effectively used for reinforcing natural stone products. They provide sufficient strength and stability to the products, allowing for a reduction in weight and facilitating the installation process. The obtained research results indicate the potential prospects of using aluminum profiles for reinforcing natural stone products, but only under certain conditions, which will depend on the size and application method of the product.

The work investigates operational losses depending on the method of mining and substantiates the methods of control and management of the quality of the natural stone massif. As a result of the conducted research, based on the application of modern qualimetric and information-computer technologies, a connection between mining technologies common in practice and the quality of the final marketable product was established, a methodology for evaluating quality indicators for block raw materials was developed using modern information-computer technologies. The study of operational losses when using a wire sawing unit and diamond ropes of various manufacturers, operational losses when using blasting methods of natural stone extraction and operational losses when using rock wedge technologies was carried out. On the basis of these studies, the paper has developed recommendations regarding the optimal size of blocks and improving the methods of stone preparation for extraction, the technology of separating monoliths from the massif and dividing them into conditioned blocks with a high blockability coefficient and improving their quality and reducing losses of natural stone during extraction.

Natural facing stone is a limited and non-renewable fossil resource. This resource should be used to the fullest extent in order to the strategy of sustainable development and the main principles of the circular economy. Like any processing industry, the stone processing industry generates waste. There are no clearly established rules for dealing with this type of waste in Ukraine to nowadays. The foreign experience of using waste from the stone processing enterprises is not suitable for Ukraine due to a different type or mineral and chemical composition of the natural stone. The organization of temporary storage requires the allocation of certain lands, which is often irrational, and the construction of special mining and technical facilities. Storage or use for re-filling at solid waste landfills raises some questions related to the ecological and sanitary aspects of such treatment. Waste from stone processing enterprises can be classified according to the size of individual particles into broken stone and fine particles. Fine-dispersed waste is a mixture of crushed stone grains with a size less than 2 mm, i.e. stone dust. These are products of the destruction of the natural stone, tools and materials used in the technological process of cutting and polishing and other substances that can get into the circulating water supply system of the enterprise. An approximate composition of waste is determined using open data of the mineral and chemical composition of natural stone, which is confirmed by the analysis of the waste chemical composition described in Ukrainian scientific researching. Organoleptic, physicochemical, radiation properties, migration rate of heavy metals were studied. Based on the obtained data, it has been concluded that the waste from stone processing enterprises is relatively inert material, which is classified as safe waste, and recommendations have been provided regarding their handling.

The aim of this research work is to study the effect of salt mist ageing on the physico-mechanical properties of two ignimbrites from the Canary Islands (Spain). Due to their insular nature and extensive coastlines, these regions are highly susceptible to atmospheric salt aerosols, which is a significant weathering agent for building materials. The ignimbrites analysed are marketed under the names "Azul Lomo Tomás de León" and "Marrón de Abades" and are widely used as building stones. Petrographic, mineralogical and chemical properties were obtained via polarisation microscopy, X-ray diffraction and X-ray fluorescence. The samples were subjected to 60 cycles of a salt mist environment, following relevant European standards. Scanning electron microscopy images of the specimens were analysed along with physical properties, including apparent density, open porosity, water absorption, colourimetry and ultrasound propagation velocity, initially and after every 20 cycles, allowing us to assess their evolution during the ageing test. Mechanical properties were evaluated using uniaxial compressive strength and flexural strength under concentrated load tests on two groups of specimens: one unaged and the other subjected to 60 ageing cycles. With the exception of apparent density, the other properties show a decrease between 5% and 30%. However, open porosity increases and is one of the properties most affected by the ageing test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mosque of Cordoba (Spain) is an emblem of the rich cultural heritage of Western Andalusia. This research focuses on the mechanical characterization of the natural stone used in the building. Determining its properties is crucial to understanding the structural behaviour of the entire building. An experimental campaign with various mechanical tests, such as density, compression, indirect tensile, and bending tests, was conducted on more than 100 cubic and prismatic specimens obtained from the main quarry that supplies material for the mosque's restoration. The results indicated the stone's isotropic behaviour for the studied properties. Further analysis established correlations between compressive strength (averaging 6 MPa) and other mechanical properties. This preliminary characterization provides valuable information for future in situ testing and more sophisticated lab techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preservation of The Great Mosque of Córdoba (Spain) as a carrier of Andalusian collective memory requires innovative approaches to assess and maintain its structural health. This research centers on two non-destructive methods: direct ultrasound testing and rebound hammer. Laboratory tests were performed on natural stone provided by the primary material supplier for the Mosque's restoration and rehabilitation works. Non-destructive and destructive tests were carried out over 10 ashlars and 100 cubic and prismatic specimens, which were cut from the ashlars. Tests were conducted in multiple directions to investigate stone anisotropy. Destructive testing indicated isotropy, but ultrasound test results disagreed. Sensitivity analysis of specimen dimensions affected result dispersion, but not average properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Heritage buildings clad with natural rock endure over time destruction caused by weathering mechanisms, pollution from urban areas, biodeterioration due to organisms, microorganisms, and also the anthropic factor. On the surface of the limestone samples taken from the ornamental natural rock with which the outside of Markovits-Mathéser house, Oradea, Romania, is clad, two species of fungi were inoculated in the laboratory: Aspergillus spp. and Cladosporium spp. Wollastonite was then applied, and from the imaging analysis (SEM), the inhibition of fungi by it is clearly observed (48 h after its application), which was also confirmed using the image segmentation method. It was also noted that the hydrophilicity of the aqueous suspension of wollastonite resulted in the absorption of water in the substrate, which in turn resulted in the drying out and surface breakage of the specimens. X-ray diffraction analysis showed the presence of the two phases (calcite and quartz) as in the starting sample, and also an additional phase assigned to wollastonite in the later phase of the experiment. An amorphous component, due to the applied gel composition, was also reported. This research highlights the fact that there are good premises for aqueous suspension of wollastonite to have a biocidal character for Aspegillus spp. and Cladosporium spp., when applied on natural stone used in the construction of heritage buildings located in temperate climates; due to its easy application, green and ecofriendly properties, and also low cost of acquisition and application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of stone to build shelters was an important step in terms of ensuring buildings’ durability and security in pre-historic times. It was also an acknowledgment of power and grandeur when societies demonstrated their respect for their leaders and gods by building stone monuments. For this reason, cathedrals, churches, and other magnificent religious monuments were built around the globe; however, the importance of the stone used in their construction itself is not sufficiently appreciated as the key factor ensuring the endurance of these historic buildings. While Western countries have long used iconic buildings to promote their heritage and advance in other socio-economic aspects, including tourism, other regions are yet to take full advantage of this outlook, even though their monumental structures may be equally impressive. Those important monuments are built of stone, which were referred to as Heritage Stones by some research groups, and their recognition would showcase the cultural and geological diversity of the world. However, there are many stones of heritage importance from geographic areas that are under-represented in the scientific literature and the work of research groups. This paper presents a review of the degree of geographical diversity in the recognition of stones and their heritage value.

NMR is becoming increasingly popular for the investigation of building materials as it is a non-invasive technology that does not require any sample preparation nor causes damage to the material. Depending on the specific application it can offer insights into properties like porosity and spatial saturation degree as well as pore structure. Moreover it enables the determination of moisture transport properties and the (re-)distribution of internal moisture into different reservoirs or chemical phases upon damage and curing. However, as yet most investigations were carried out using devices originally either designed for geophysical applications or the analysis of rather homogeneous small scale (< 10 mL) samples. This paper describes the capabilities of an NMR tomograph, which has been specifically optimized for the investigation of larger, heterogeneous building material samples (diameters of up to 72 mm, length of up to 700 mm) with a high flexibility due to interchangeable coils allowing for a high SNR and short echo times (50-80 μs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

natural stones are used as coating material on the exteriors and terraces of buildings in architecture, and in places such as entrances, halls, living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms and stairs in interior spaces. Limra limestone and travertine are used as natural building materials in many structures depending on their colors. however, the water absorption values of these two natural stones are high due to their porosity, resulting in negative effects from atmospheric conditions. In this study, two different carbonate-based natural stones, limra limestone and travertine, were treated with two different water-repellent chemicals, one solvent-based and one water-based. After application, thermal shock tests were performed with a sodium chloride solution consisting of twenty cycles. The changes in the weights of samples dried to constant mass, ultrasonic permeability, Leeb hardness, and color change values in the samples were determined after the thermal shock tests. In addition, the effects of water-repellent chemicals on the formation of naCl crystals accumulated in the pores of the rocks were examined by SEM and EDX analysis. Changes in non-destructively measured values were compared with the values of reference samples without surface protection. The solvent-based water-repellent chemical made the sample surface more hydrophobic than the water-based repellent. In both types of natural stones, the solvent-based water repellent chemical showed more protective properties against salt crystallization under thermal shock conditions compared to the water-based repellent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The natural stone sector in Türkiye has developed significantly in recent years and it is seen that enterprises are tried to use modern production methods and techniques with large investments. When these production methods used in factories and quarries are investigated, it is seen that especially diamond wire cutting, chain saw machines, circular saw block cutting (S/T) and gang saw machines come to the fore. These machines due to high productivity, production and profit rates are more preferred by companies in the natural stone quarries. In this study, natural stones with sedimentary and metamorphic origin were obtained from a natural stone enterprise in Denizli. Then, some important physical-mechanical properties of these samples are determined by performing rock mechanics experiments. Finally, new empirical models are proposed for the estimation of the areal slab production rate (ASPR) of the S/T and gang saw machines used in the natural stone enterprise. This study shows that uniaxial compressive strength, indirect tensile strength, Cerchar abrasivity index and density properties of natural stones can be used to estimate sawing performance of S/T and gang saw machines. In addition, the reliability of the proposed models is compared with other models in the literature. This study should be continued to develop more generalized and reliable estimation models especially by adding natural stones of different origin and with different physicalmechanical properties to the database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat storage in systems integrated with renewable energy sources in facilities can reduce the consumption of fossil fuels, cut maintenance costs, and decrease greenhouse gas emissions from buildings and other objects. One of the possible solutions is the use of a stone heat accumulator for short-term heat storage and the use of this deposit in the ventilation process of the facility. During short-term air flow through the porous material from which an accumulator bed is made, there is an exchange of heat and mass between the flowing air and the bed particles. In the long term, the use of an accumulator can lead to an increase in dust and the development of pathogenic microorganisms, endangering human life and health. Therefore, understanding the factors influencing the efficient use of a stone deposit is very important. The aim of this study is to calculate the changes in thermal-mass parameters in the air flowing out of the stone accumulator and to assess the effect of long-term stone accumulator use on the content of microorganisms and dust concentration in bioaerosol. The application of the heat storage system in the stone bed leads to the formation of strictly controlled microclimatic conditions, and the tested air does not constitute a threat to the people staying in the object. The concentration standards of PM10 and PM2.5 exceeded the limit values (PM2.5 = 20 μg∙m−3 and PM10 = 40 μg∙m−3), and, thus, the air in the studied greenhouse was classified as polluted. The analysis also showed that, for the analyzed conditions, a 20% increase in the initial temperature of the accumulator bed results in a nearly 20% increase in the outlet air temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of stone to build shelters was an important step in terms of ensuring buildings' durability and security in pre-historic times. It was also an acknowledgment of power and grandeur when societies demonstrated their respect for their leaders and gods by building stone monuments. For this reason, cathedrals, churches, and other magnificent religious monuments were built around the globe; however, the importance of the stone used in their construction itself is not sufficiently appreciated as the key factor ensuring the endurance of these historic buildings. While Western countries have long used iconic buildings to promote their heritage and advance in other socio-economic aspects, including tourism, other regions are yet to take full advantage of this outlook, even though their monumental structures may be equally impressive. Those important monuments are built of stone, which were referred to as Heritage Stones by some research groups, and their recognition would showcase the cultural and geological diversity of the world. However, there are many stones of heritage importance from geographic areas that are under-represented in the scientific literature and the work of research groups. This paper presents a review of the degree of geographical diversity in the recognition of stones and their heritage value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abrasion resistance is one of the crucial parameters to consider when evaluating natural stone for use in public infrastructure with light traffic. The assessment and evaluation of abrasion parameters can be carried out according to the EN 14157 standard, using two typical natural stones from different sources in order to compare the necessary parameters. The parameters will be analysed in correlation with other factors in order to find optimizations. The results showed a significant correlation coefficient between the dry sample and water saturation tests. This suggests that the abrasion resistance of natural stone when dry is closely related to its resistance when saturated with water. This information is valuable in selecting appropriate natural stone materials for public infrastructure, as it provides insights into how the materials will perform under different conditions. In public squares, natural stone is often used as paving material because of its durability, resistance to weathering, aesthetics and other parameters. However, different types of natural stone have different levels of abrasion resistance, which can affect their suitability for use in public squares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural stones are exposed to sudden and slow-developing thermal cycles, affecting their physico-mechanical and surface properties. In this study, changes in the physico-mechanical properties of natural stones in response to sudden (thermal shock) and slow-developing (thermal aging) thermal cycles were investigated on natural stone samples with various compositions (magmatic, sedimentary, metamorphic). Both the thermal shock and thermal aging cycles were simulated by first heating the specimens to 105 °C for 18 h. In case of the thermal shock cycles, the heating phase was followed by placing the samples in purred water for 6 h. To simulate the thermal aging cycles, specimens were allowed to cool at room temperature (23 °C) for 6 h. At the end of the cycles, a selection of physico-mechanical properties was evaluated and compared with the initial values. Results indicate that thermal treatments have a significant negative effect on the strength of the natural stone samples. Regression models were developed to estimate uniaxial compressive strength, point load strength, Brazilian tensile strength from non-destructive test parameters (Schmidt hardness, P wave velocity, porosity) of natural and treated samples. Results show that there are strong correlations between mechanical properties and non-destructive test parameters (R2 > 0.96, MAPE values between 2 and 5%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of a roof to absorb heat is crucial for maintaining temperature stability within a room. Therefore, natural material composite coatings utilization offers a viable option for modern roof development. This research investigates how using natural stone mixed with epoxy, and applied as a coating on a galvalume surface, influences thermal conductivity and reduces room temperature. Temperature measurements were collected around a small room with a composite-coated roof, utilizing different types of rock in the composition. Thermocouples were placed 20 cm above the roof's surface, attached to the roofing composite, positioned beneath the galvalume layer, and within the small room. The results demonstrate a reduction in thermal conductivity and room temperature when natural stone powder is added to the roof. Experiments using composite coatings with various stone types exhibit varying degrees of room temperature reduction. Consequently, this research concludes that the unique properties of natural stone can effectively lower the thermal conductivity of roofs and decrease room temperature.

The evaluation of stone cladding material suitability can be a challenge due to the way that stone physical and mechanical properties, and characteristics such as mineralogy, might influence stone performance as a cladding element in a ventilated facade application. Salts can affect natural stone performance, and one of the experimental methods available to study and predict it is through accelerated aging tests such as salt fog chamber cycles. Aging test results should include the analysis of critical stone physical–mechanical properties to fully understand decay effects. The aim of this study was to reduce the lack of knowledge regarding the implications of salt fog on certain fundamental characteristics of stone cladding requirements, such as elastic properties and flexural strength, because these are particularly important properties for ventilated facade systems. A systematic methodology based on artificial salt fog cycles in a climatic chamber, microscopic analysis, weight measurement, flexural strength, and dynamic elastic modulus was performed on two limestones from Portugal: Moleanos (MO) and Semi-Rijo (SR). This study aims to contribute to improved selection stone methods linked to more sustainable stone facades, and the experimental methodology can be further applied to other stone types, particularly the ones most selected for stone cladding applications near coastal areas. In this work, results of salt fog decay cycles are presented and discussed considering their direct contribution for a better stone-cladding dimensioning process.

The article considers the possibilities of using automated and information systems with digital images to solve practical problems related to the extraction and processing the natural stone. Computerized processing and image analysis of the surfaces of natural stone and industrial products made from it allows measuring the characteristics of the color, texture of these surfaces, as well as the geometric dimensions and angles of the products along the outer contour. The obtained results will be useful for determining the mechanical characteristics of natural stone in areas of deposits that are mined or planned to be mined, for the study of physical and mechanical characteristics of rocks due to their crystalline structure, for quality control of the front surface and geometric dimensions of industrial products from natural stone. An example of experimental research and evaluation of the composition and structure of samples of gabro rock is given. The main directions of using automated and information systems with digital images to obtain measurement information about the characteristics of natural stone samples and products in the mining and geological field are presented and systematized. This makes it possible to increase the efficiency of mining operations for the open-pit mining of natural stone deposits, the accuracy of determining the characteristics of samples and products, and to increase the quality and competitiveness of industrial products of enterprises engaged in the extraction and processing block natural stone.

Most crushed granite quarries in Ukraine have areas with low fracturing, which allows mining blocks of natural decorative stone, and in some quarries these areas are significant in volume, for example, as in the Leznikovskyi quarry. The prospect of concomitant extraction of blocks in crushed stone quarries is economically justified, since the cost of one cube of crushed stone ($ 8–10) is ten times less than the cost of one cube of a block of natural decorative stone ($ 180–600) at almost the same production costs. With the accompanying extraction of blocks, it is possible to attract the existing mining equipment of the crushed stone quarry, which will reduce the cost of technological complexes of the mining enterprise. The publication develops a diagram for the operation of the PILEMASTER RS15 stone cutting machine. An excavator with a circular saw can work out the ledge both from the sole of the ledge, 1' so and from the roof. The operating parameters of hydraulic excavators allow you to develop ledges up to 10 m high from the sole, above 10 m from two positions – from the sole and the roof of the ledge. A technological scheme for the associated extraction of natural stone blocks in areas that are located within the working area of the crushed stone section of the quarry is proposed. In the technological scheme A of excavation of natural blocks by a disk machine at the stage of extraction of useful mass from the array, the principle of individual delineation of blocks in the recess strips of the ledge is laid down. Scheme B uses the technology of separating blocks from an array to be the same as Scheme A. But the work is being done from top to bottom.

The application of non-contact diagnostic methodologies is the current challenge in the frame of the cultural heritage, referred to as preservation, monitoring and restoration. Inspired by the potential shown by infrared thermography in rock mechanics’ non-destructive applications, this paper presents the results achieved by its use for the quick survey of different weathering types affecting natural stones at historical buildings. Infrared thermography allowed recognizing and mapping the different surface temperatures arising from the presence of efflorescence, subflorescence, alveolization, black crusts and bioweathering at limestone and basalt stones. Infrared data were sided by photogrammetric three-dimensional models of surveyed spots, which provided quantitative data on the thickness of rock affected by mechanical weathering, and key correspondence between the two techniques is highlighted. Achieved results show that infrared outcomes are related to different aspects primarily involving the stone face morphology and color, as well as the environmental conditions at the surveying time. Provided interpretations were validated by field visual inspections, which confirmed the good potential of infrared thermography as a quick weathering diagnostic tool. This study can be therefore considered a starting reference for knowledge development in this scientific field.

Portugal has a relevant role in natural stone production and trading. The national sector has been trying to follow the requirements of the Fourth Industrial Era, where automation of stone processing operations is necessary to increase productivity, balance the decreasing workforce and reduce stone waste. The identification of defects or defective areas in stone slabs is a time-consuming operation: not only highly subjective, dependent on the operator experience, but also disconnected from geological knowledge. Despite recent advances in automatic pattern recognition of stone products’ surface, stone selection lacks a geological foundation. Thus, this paper aims to discuss the terminology of stone defects and singularities applied to stone materials and in the stone selection process. A classification system of natural stone heterogeneities and discontinuities is developed to be used by stone operators and to be applied in future image analysis research. The system, based on three main classifiers (colour heterogeneities, textural and structural heterogeneities, and discontinuities) is validated by seventeen different Portuguese stone varieties and appears to be a suitable qualitative descriptor of stone slabs and tiles, showing flexibility in its use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]