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The present paper discusses the importance of non-destructive and micro-destructive technology in forensic investigations in the field of cultural heritage. Recent technological developments and the wide availability of modern analytical instrumentation are creating new possibilities for performing scientific measurements and acquiring data directly on-site—thereby limiting, where possible, sampling activity—as well as learning about the technologies and materials that were employed in the past to create cultural assets. Information on periods, chemical composition, manufacturing techniques, etc., can be gathered more easily. Overall, the benefits of on-site forensic investigations are multiple, including the potential to increase substantially the speed and efficacy of the criminal justice system. However, such benefits are only realized when data quality is guaranteed and findings can be used as forensic evidence in court. The present paper shows data from the non-destructive and micro-destructive analysis of different artworks and objects provided by the Cosenza Carabinieri Unit for the Protection of Cultural Heritage and Anti-Counterfeiting (Calabria, Italy). In particular, two oil paintings on canvas depicting cherubs (Italian: putti), recovered as fragments of larger religious artworks, and two bronze belt and helmet fragments were investigated. In the first case, the research aimed to define the original pictorial layer, identify any reconstruction pictorial areas or pictorial retouching, assess the state of conservation, reconstruct the previous conservation treatments, and provide indications about the chronology of the artworks. In the second case, analysis was performed both to define the bronze chemical composition and the origin of the soil (earth) found within the objects during their recovery. For these purposes, the analytical approach involved the use of non-destructive and micro-destructive analysis as follows: infrared reflectography (IRR), ultraviolet-induced visible fluorescence (UV), X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF), digital optical microscopy (DOM), scanning electron microscopy equipped with EDX microanalysis (SEM-EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The results made it possible to collect valuable diagnostic information and answer questions posed by the institutions for the resolution of various doubts about forensic science and cases concerning the seizure, recovery, or return of archaeological or historical-artistic objects of cultural interest.
Michela Ricca; Maria Alberghina; Luciana Randazzo; Salvatore Schiavone; Antonio Donato; Maria Albanese; Mauro La Russa. A Combined Non-Destructive and Micro-Destructive Approach to Solving the Forensic Problems in the Field of Cultural Heritage: Two Case Studies. Applied Sciences 2021, 11, 6951 .
AMA StyleMichela Ricca, Maria Alberghina, Luciana Randazzo, Salvatore Schiavone, Antonio Donato, Maria Albanese, Mauro La Russa. A Combined Non-Destructive and Micro-Destructive Approach to Solving the Forensic Problems in the Field of Cultural Heritage: Two Case Studies. Applied Sciences. 2021; 11 (15):6951.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMichela Ricca; Maria Alberghina; Luciana Randazzo; Salvatore Schiavone; Antonio Donato; Maria Albanese; Mauro La Russa. 2021. "A Combined Non-Destructive and Micro-Destructive Approach to Solving the Forensic Problems in the Field of Cultural Heritage: Two Case Studies." Applied Sciences 11, no. 15: 6951.
This paper concerns the archaeometric analysis of ceramic finds dating to the Roman Imperial period, brought to light during the excavation campaigns conducted at Vagnari (Puglia) in south-east Italy. On the site of the central village (vicus) of this imperial estate, established by the Roman Emperor in the early 1st century CE, large dolia (wine vats) sunk into the floor of a winery of the 2nd century CE recently were brought to light. Other discoveries include kilns for the production of ceramic roof tiles and also kiln wasters such as misfired tiles. The purpose of the analytical approach was therefore twofold: 1) to establish the composition of local ceramic products and of raw clay resources available nearby; 2) to prove that the dolia were imported and not produced locally (as macroscopic observations of the ceramic vessels would suggest) and to offer a hypothesis concerning their provenance through petrographic observations and chemical analysis. The results show that roof tiles for the settlement were manufactured locally from readily available clay deposits, but the dolia were imported, by sea and/or land, from distant workshops in volcanic zones on the west coast of Italy around Rome or south of Rome near Minturno on the Campanian border.
G. Montana; L. Randazzo; D. Barca; M. Carroll. Archaeometric analysis of building ceramics and ‘dolia defossa’ from the Roman imperial estate of Vagnari (Gravina in Puglia, Italy). Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports 2021, 38, 103057 .
AMA StyleG. Montana, L. Randazzo, D. Barca, M. Carroll. Archaeometric analysis of building ceramics and ‘dolia defossa’ from the Roman imperial estate of Vagnari (Gravina in Puglia, Italy). Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports. 2021; 38 ():103057.
Chicago/Turabian StyleG. Montana; L. Randazzo; D. Barca; M. Carroll. 2021. "Archaeometric analysis of building ceramics and ‘dolia defossa’ from the Roman imperial estate of Vagnari (Gravina in Puglia, Italy)." Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports 38, no. : 103057.
This work is focused on a multidisciplinary study of 13 pottery fragments collected in the submerged archaeological site of Baia (Naples, Italy). Founded by the Romans in the 1st century B.C., this archaeological area represents one of the greatest evidences of Roman architecture and it includes ancient ruins whose structures range from maritime villas and imperial buildings. Several diagnostic tests were carried out in order to characterize the archaeological materials, their structure and properties, as well as the alteration and degradation products. Degradation forms in seawater imply not only a variation in the physico-mechanical and chemical properties of the material but also an aesthetic damage, due to superficial deposits, which can lead to the illegibility of the artefacts. In this context, it is crucial to determine to what extent these decay factors, mainly attributable to biological growth, could affect the durability of pottery and what are the effects of cleaning procedures. The work offers further elements to obtain new insights into the underwater cultural heritage field and in the function of ceramic matter, especially related to several applications in technology and in the adoption of strategies for suitable conservation procedures.
Michela Ricca; Beatriz Cámara; Rafael Fort; Mónica Álvarez de Buergo; Luciana Randazzo; Barbara Davidde Petriaggi; Mauro Francesco La Russa. Definition of analytical cleaning procedures for archaeological pottery from underwater environments: The case study of samples from Baia (Naples, South Italy). Materials & Design 2020, 197, 109278 .
AMA StyleMichela Ricca, Beatriz Cámara, Rafael Fort, Mónica Álvarez de Buergo, Luciana Randazzo, Barbara Davidde Petriaggi, Mauro Francesco La Russa. Definition of analytical cleaning procedures for archaeological pottery from underwater environments: The case study of samples from Baia (Naples, South Italy). Materials & Design. 2020; 197 ():109278.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMichela Ricca; Beatriz Cámara; Rafael Fort; Mónica Álvarez de Buergo; Luciana Randazzo; Barbara Davidde Petriaggi; Mauro Francesco La Russa. 2020. "Definition of analytical cleaning procedures for archaeological pottery from underwater environments: The case study of samples from Baia (Naples, South Italy)." Materials & Design 197, no. : 109278.
In the last decades, many researchers investigated the relation between environmental pollution and the degradation phenomena on the built heritage, because of their rapid increase and growing harmfulness. Consequently, the identification of the main pollution sources has become essential to define mitigation actions against degradation and alteration phenomena of the stone materials. In this way, the present paper is focused on the study of the effect of air pollution on archaeological buildings in Historic Cairo. A multi-methodological approach was used to obtain information about the chemical composition of examined black crusts and to clarify their correlation with the air pollution, specifically the heavy metals and the carbonaceous fraction, their main sources, and their impact on the state of conservation of the studied sites. All specimens were characterized by polarized optical microscopy (POM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Electron Probe Micro Analyser coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EPMA-EDS), laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA). The study conducted on heavy metals and carbonaceous fraction showed that the greatest contribution of the accumulation of pollutants is attributable to vehicular traffic and industrial activities, the main polluting sources in Cairo city. Furthermore, the comparison with other studies conducted on the carbonaceous fraction in the black crusts coming from both European and non-European cities, has allowed to discriminate the contribution of the primary and secondary polluting sources. Finally, the correlation of the data obtained on the heavy metals and the carbonaceous fraction allowed to formulate important hypothesis about the processes of sulphation.
Natalia Rovella; Nevin Aly; Valeria Comite; Luciana Randazzo; Paola Fermo; Donatella Barca; Monica Alvarez de Buergo; Mauro Francesco La Russa. The environmental impact of air pollution on the built heritage of historic Cairo (Egypt). Science of The Total Environment 2020, 764, 142905 .
AMA StyleNatalia Rovella, Nevin Aly, Valeria Comite, Luciana Randazzo, Paola Fermo, Donatella Barca, Monica Alvarez de Buergo, Mauro Francesco La Russa. The environmental impact of air pollution on the built heritage of historic Cairo (Egypt). Science of The Total Environment. 2020; 764 ():142905.
Chicago/Turabian StyleNatalia Rovella; Nevin Aly; Valeria Comite; Luciana Randazzo; Paola Fermo; Donatella Barca; Monica Alvarez de Buergo; Mauro Francesco La Russa. 2020. "The environmental impact of air pollution on the built heritage of historic Cairo (Egypt)." Science of The Total Environment 764, no. : 142905.
Neutron radiography (NR) was here applied to study the effects of two different commercially available consolidants on the water absorption properties in a particular type of limestone (biocalcarenite), known as Pietra d’Aspra stone, which is one of the most extensively used lithotypes in Sicilian Baroque buildings. Our attention was mainly focused on the evaluation, using a fast and nondestructive visualization of water motion through capillarity, of the effectiveness of such layers as consolidating agents in view of preserving and maintaining both old and modern structures. The biocalcarenite was treated with nanosilica (Nano Estel®) and nanolime (CaLoSil®) by brushing it until full saturation, and then artificially weathered by salt crystallization and temperature/relative humidity jumps. Liquid distribution and height of the water front were monitored as a function of time. Significant differences in the water suction behavior among all the investigated samples were highlighted, which allowed us to gain insight into the coating/substrate interaction mechanisms which regulate the fluid mobility inside the porous network of the limestone.
Luciana Randazzo; Giuseppe Paladini; Valentina Venuti; Vincenza Crupi; Frédéric Ott; Giuseppe Montana; Michela Ricca; Natalia Rovella; Mauro Francesco La Russa; Domenico Majolino. Pore Structure and Water Transfer in Pietra d’Aspra Limestone: A Neutronographic Study. Applied Sciences 2020, 10, 6745 .
AMA StyleLuciana Randazzo, Giuseppe Paladini, Valentina Venuti, Vincenza Crupi, Frédéric Ott, Giuseppe Montana, Michela Ricca, Natalia Rovella, Mauro Francesco La Russa, Domenico Majolino. Pore Structure and Water Transfer in Pietra d’Aspra Limestone: A Neutronographic Study. Applied Sciences. 2020; 10 (19):6745.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLuciana Randazzo; Giuseppe Paladini; Valentina Venuti; Vincenza Crupi; Frédéric Ott; Giuseppe Montana; Michela Ricca; Natalia Rovella; Mauro Francesco La Russa; Domenico Majolino. 2020. "Pore Structure and Water Transfer in Pietra d’Aspra Limestone: A Neutronographic Study." Applied Sciences 10, no. 19: 6745.
The Archaeological Museum of Palermo (Sicily) has recently presented the results of the restoration of three wall paintings from the House of the Masks of Solunto archaeological site. These significant paintings, dating back to the first century BCE, are the most significant examples of Pompeian style discovered in Sicily to date. The cycle of frescoes unearthed is the best preserved and most complete example of wall painting dating to the Republican Roman period in Sicily. This house was a luxurious private residence built on two floors and centred around a peristyle. This fresco cycle embellished the walls of a banquet room (oecus) discovered during an archaeological excavation carried out by Giovanni Patricolo in 1869. The House of the Masks definition was suggested by Salemi Pace in 1872 when he published the discovery of frescoes with colourful garlands and theatrical masks. In 1874, five panels were detached from the walls and moved to the National Museum of Palermo for conservation purposes. The recent careful cleaning of the pictorial surfaces and the new archaeological and archaeometric research revealed unusual details about the pictorial technique and newly painted subjects. The scientific investigation was preliminarily based on a non-destructive approach, performed in situ using portable equipment and subsequently, the further examination of a micro fragment using micro-destructive investigation. X-ray fluorescence analysis was carried out to identify the original pictorial palette, and electron microprobe analyses coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to define the alteration products. Finally, infrared imaging provided new data about the pictorial technique and iconography. The new archaeometric evidence sheds light on these rare examples of Roman wall painting in the Sicilian Roman province, which until today have not been systematically studied from the point of view of materials and execution techniques, confirming the dating and connections with contemporary workshops active in other Roman provinces.
Maria Francesca Alberghina; Giuseppe Milazzo; Salvatore Schiavone; Luciana Randazzo; Michela Ricca; Natalia Rovella; Francesca Spatafora; Elia Fiorenza; Mauro Francesco La Russa. The Contribution of Microchemical Analyses and Diagnostic Imaging to the Conservation and Identification of the Degraded Surfaces of Hellenistic-Roman Wall Paintings from Solunto (Sicily). Studies in Conservation 2020, 1 -15.
AMA StyleMaria Francesca Alberghina, Giuseppe Milazzo, Salvatore Schiavone, Luciana Randazzo, Michela Ricca, Natalia Rovella, Francesca Spatafora, Elia Fiorenza, Mauro Francesco La Russa. The Contribution of Microchemical Analyses and Diagnostic Imaging to the Conservation and Identification of the Degraded Surfaces of Hellenistic-Roman Wall Paintings from Solunto (Sicily). Studies in Conservation. 2020; ():1-15.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMaria Francesca Alberghina; Giuseppe Milazzo; Salvatore Schiavone; Luciana Randazzo; Michela Ricca; Natalia Rovella; Francesca Spatafora; Elia Fiorenza; Mauro Francesco La Russa. 2020. "The Contribution of Microchemical Analyses and Diagnostic Imaging to the Conservation and Identification of the Degraded Surfaces of Hellenistic-Roman Wall Paintings from Solunto (Sicily)." Studies in Conservation , no. : 1-15.
About 560 western Greek amphorae (6th–5th centuries BCE) re-used in enchytrismos burials were unearthed in the necropolis of the Dorian-Chalcidian colony of Himera in northwestern Sicily. Among the most striking issues is the determination of their geographical provenance. For this purpose, ceramic samples chipped from freshly broken surfaces of all the amphorae were first subdivided into macrofabrics by the use of a hand lens. Thereon, the samples were studied in accordance with standardized methods by the use of reflected light microscopy. Due to the special focus of our project on the characterization of Sicilian productions, a selection of amphorae which showed visible, macroscopic affinities with the majority of the macrofabrics previously attributed to the region of Himera was submitted for thin-section petrography at the polarizing microscope and chemical analyses (ICP-MS and ICP/OES). This new data set was compared with reference samples investigated by previous research, referring to ceramic raw clays of the colony’s territory and local tablewares of the Iato K480-type. Our study confirms the local manufacture of the entire selection of transport vessels. The identification of a production of western Greek wine (?) amphorae in Himera dating mainly from the third quarter of the 6th to the first quarter of the 5th century BCE breaks new grounds in view of a better interpretation of the colony’s economic development during the later archaic period. Furthermore, it underlines Himera’s prominent position within the wider frame of regional economic interaction.
Giuseppe Montana; Luciana Randazzo; Babette Bechtold. The Beginning of Western Greek Amphorae Production in Western Sicily: Archaeometric and Archaeological Studies on 6th–5th Centuries BCE Amphorae Manufactured in Himera. Minerals 2020, 10, 762 .
AMA StyleGiuseppe Montana, Luciana Randazzo, Babette Bechtold. The Beginning of Western Greek Amphorae Production in Western Sicily: Archaeometric and Archaeological Studies on 6th–5th Centuries BCE Amphorae Manufactured in Himera. Minerals. 2020; 10 (9):762.
Chicago/Turabian StyleGiuseppe Montana; Luciana Randazzo; Babette Bechtold. 2020. "The Beginning of Western Greek Amphorae Production in Western Sicily: Archaeometric and Archaeological Studies on 6th–5th Centuries BCE Amphorae Manufactured in Himera." Minerals 10, no. 9: 762.
This multidisciplinary research focuses on diagnostic investigations to characterize the archaeological materials, as well as the alteration and degradation forms detected at the Roman Thermae of Reggio Calabria (Calabria, South Italy) site. The thermal complex, (dating I–II century B.C.), was built around three main rooms such as the caldarium (hot bath), the tepidarium (warm bath) and the frigidarium (cold bath), all connected to a central room through several entrances. The central hall still preserves a suggestive mosaic floor dating between the II and III century A.D., characterized by geometric motifs and black and white tesserae. Fragments of various archaeological stone materials, such as bricks, mortars, sedimentary, volcanic and metamorphic rocks have been studied with different and complementary techniques. Particularly, polarized optical microscopy (POM) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD) were performed to characterize the materials employed to construct the site and evaluate their state of preservation. Finally, laboratory microbiological culture analysis was conducted to identify the main microorganisms composing the biological patinas detected on the sampled materials. Results allowed us to evaluate the most suitable restoration procedures to conduct at the archaeological site, considering the different stone materials present in the studied area and their state of conservation.
Michela Ricca; Clara Enza Urzì; Natalia Rovella; Alessandro Sardella; Alessandra Bonazza; Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo; Filomena De Leo; Luciana Randazzo; Anna Arcudi; Mauro Francesco La Russa. Multidisciplinary Approach to Characterize Archaeological Materials and Status of Conservation of the Roman Thermae of Reggio Calabria Site (Calabria, South Italy). Applied Sciences 2020, 10, 5106 .
AMA StyleMichela Ricca, Clara Enza Urzì, Natalia Rovella, Alessandro Sardella, Alessandra Bonazza, Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo, Filomena De Leo, Luciana Randazzo, Anna Arcudi, Mauro Francesco La Russa. Multidisciplinary Approach to Characterize Archaeological Materials and Status of Conservation of the Roman Thermae of Reggio Calabria Site (Calabria, South Italy). Applied Sciences. 2020; 10 (15):5106.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMichela Ricca; Clara Enza Urzì; Natalia Rovella; Alessandro Sardella; Alessandra Bonazza; Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo; Filomena De Leo; Luciana Randazzo; Anna Arcudi; Mauro Francesco La Russa. 2020. "Multidisciplinary Approach to Characterize Archaeological Materials and Status of Conservation of the Roman Thermae of Reggio Calabria Site (Calabria, South Italy)." Applied Sciences 10, no. 15: 5106.
In this work a combined laboratory-based and neutronographic investigation was carried out on a type of limestone, known as Pietra di Lecce stone, widely used in Italian Baroque as construction material. The limestone was treated with two different commercially-available coatings, namely nanosilica and nanolime, and artificially weathered by salt crystallization and temperature/relative humidity jumps. The aim was to provide an experimental evidence of the protective and consolidating effectiveness of the two treatments by looking at the water absorption process occurring inside the pore network of the analyzed stones. The analysis of the wetting front position revealed significant variations in the water absorption kinetics among the investigated samples, suggesting different mechanisms of interaction between the inorganic consolidants and the underlying bulk stone. Finally, a quantitative evaluation of the best effectiveness of the two products was addressed, particularly useful in view of an appropriate choice of restoration procedures to be applied to building materials.
Luciana Randazzo; Valentina Venuti; Giuseppe Paladini; Vincenza Crupi; Domenico Majolino; Frédéric Ott; Michela Ricca; Natalia Rovella; Mauro Francesco La Russa. Evaluating the protecting effects of two consolidants applied on Pietra di Lecce limestone: A neutronographic study. Journal of Cultural Heritage 2020, 46, 1 .
AMA StyleLuciana Randazzo, Valentina Venuti, Giuseppe Paladini, Vincenza Crupi, Domenico Majolino, Frédéric Ott, Michela Ricca, Natalia Rovella, Mauro Francesco La Russa. Evaluating the protecting effects of two consolidants applied on Pietra di Lecce limestone: A neutronographic study. Journal of Cultural Heritage. 2020; 46 ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLuciana Randazzo; Valentina Venuti; Giuseppe Paladini; Vincenza Crupi; Domenico Majolino; Frédéric Ott; Michela Ricca; Natalia Rovella; Mauro Francesco La Russa. 2020. "Evaluating the protecting effects of two consolidants applied on Pietra di Lecce limestone: A neutronographic study." Journal of Cultural Heritage 46, no. : 1.
In recent decades, increasing attention is being paid to the multidisciplinary approach that allows the performance of both a preventive conservation and a more invasive restoration action. In this context, the present study aims to acquire information and data from field surveys undertaken in San Domenico Church, Southern Calabria, in order to provide a tool for the recording and the inventory of damage and decay phenomena, and assess their causes and scale. The subsequent calculation of damage indices also provided useful information in order to allow the prioritization of conservation and preservation responses.
Luciana Randazzo; Matteo Collina; Michela Ricca; Loris Barbieri; Fabio Bruno; Anna Arcudi; Mauro La Russa. Damage Indices and Photogrammetry for Decay Assessment of Stone-Built Cultural Heritage: The Case Study of the San Domenico Church Main Entrance Portal (South Calabria, Italy). Sustainability 2020, 12, 5198 .
AMA StyleLuciana Randazzo, Matteo Collina, Michela Ricca, Loris Barbieri, Fabio Bruno, Anna Arcudi, Mauro La Russa. Damage Indices and Photogrammetry for Decay Assessment of Stone-Built Cultural Heritage: The Case Study of the San Domenico Church Main Entrance Portal (South Calabria, Italy). Sustainability. 2020; 12 (12):5198.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLuciana Randazzo; Matteo Collina; Michela Ricca; Loris Barbieri; Fabio Bruno; Anna Arcudi; Mauro La Russa. 2020. "Damage Indices and Photogrammetry for Decay Assessment of Stone-Built Cultural Heritage: The Case Study of the San Domenico Church Main Entrance Portal (South Calabria, Italy)." Sustainability 12, no. 12: 5198.
Natural stones have represented one of the main building materials since ancient times. In recent decades, a worsening in degradation phenomena related mostly to environmental pollution was observed, threatening their conservation. The present work is focused on the minero-petrographic and geochemical characterization of black crust (BC) samples taken from the historical center of Naples, after selecting two pilot monumental areas. The latter were chosen based on their historical importance, type of material, state of preservation and position in the urban context (i.e., high vehicular traffic area, limited traffic area, industrial area, etc.). The building materials used and their interaction with environmental pollutions were studied comparing the results obtained by means of different analytical techniques such as polarized light Optical Microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersion system (SEM-EDS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and laser ablation coupled with inductive plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS).
Valeria Comite; Michela Ricca; Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo; Sossio Fabio Graziano; Natalia Rovella; Concetta Rispoli; Chiara Gallo; Luciana Randazzo; Donatella Barca; Piergiulio Cappelletti; Mauro Francesco La Russa. Multidisciplinary Approach for Evaluating the Geochemical Degradation of Building Stone Related to Pollution Sources in the Historical Center of Naples (Italy). Applied Sciences 2020, 10, 4241 .
AMA StyleValeria Comite, Michela Ricca, Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo, Sossio Fabio Graziano, Natalia Rovella, Concetta Rispoli, Chiara Gallo, Luciana Randazzo, Donatella Barca, Piergiulio Cappelletti, Mauro Francesco La Russa. Multidisciplinary Approach for Evaluating the Geochemical Degradation of Building Stone Related to Pollution Sources in the Historical Center of Naples (Italy). Applied Sciences. 2020; 10 (12):4241.
Chicago/Turabian StyleValeria Comite; Michela Ricca; Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo; Sossio Fabio Graziano; Natalia Rovella; Concetta Rispoli; Chiara Gallo; Luciana Randazzo; Donatella Barca; Piergiulio Cappelletti; Mauro Francesco La Russa. 2020. "Multidisciplinary Approach for Evaluating the Geochemical Degradation of Building Stone Related to Pollution Sources in the Historical Center of Naples (Italy)." Applied Sciences 10, no. 12: 4241.
This study focuses on the characterization of black crusts collected from the Monza cathedral located in the homonymous city (N Italy), a hot spot from the point of view of the atmospheric pollution. Black crusts and substrate marble specimens were analyzed by a multi-analytical approach including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform-Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Stereomicroscopy (SM), Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM), High Resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (HRSEM-EDX) and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP/MS). The characterization of the carbon fraction (organic carbon, OC, and elemental carbon, EC) was performed using a new approach based on the use of Carbon Hydrogen Nitrogen (CHN) analysis and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The integrated approach allowed the identification of the pollution sources responsible for black crusts forming process. The precise identification of the main substances responsible for the surface degradation phenomena, in particular those leading to the blackening and disintegration of the carbonate substrates, is essential for the definition of conservative intervention and maintenance strategies, as well as for the development of emission reduction policies on a local scale.
Valeria Comite; José Santiago Pozo-Antonio; Carolina Cardell; Luciana Randazzo; Mauro Francesco La Russa; Paola Fermo. A multi-analytical approach for the characterization of black crusts on the facade of an historical cathedral. Microchemical Journal 2020, 158, 105121 .
AMA StyleValeria Comite, José Santiago Pozo-Antonio, Carolina Cardell, Luciana Randazzo, Mauro Francesco La Russa, Paola Fermo. A multi-analytical approach for the characterization of black crusts on the facade of an historical cathedral. Microchemical Journal. 2020; 158 ():105121.
Chicago/Turabian StyleValeria Comite; José Santiago Pozo-Antonio; Carolina Cardell; Luciana Randazzo; Mauro Francesco La Russa; Paola Fermo. 2020. "A multi-analytical approach for the characterization of black crusts on the facade of an historical cathedral." Microchemical Journal 158, no. : 105121.
Tituli Picti are an ancient form of urban graffiti very common in the archaeological site of Pompeii (Naples, South—Italy). They are generally made of red pigments applied on walls of Campanian ignimbrite. This paper deals with a scientific investigation aimed to their conservation. This is a challenging task since it requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes restorers, archaeologists and conservation scientists. The study has provided suggestions on the proper way to conserve Tituli Picti over time. In the present work, several specimens of Campanian ignimbrite were painted with red earth pigment; lime and Arabic gum have been used as binders as well. Such painted stones were treated with three consolidants: a suspension of reactive nanoparticles of silica, ethyl silicate and an acrylic microemulsion. Treated and untreated specimens were subjected to thermal aging, artificial solar radiation and induced crystallization decay. It has been assessed the colorimetric variations induced by treatments. Moreover, the micromorphologic features of the consolidated surfaces have been highlighted by means of electron microscope observations. The scotch tape test allowed to compare the superficial cohesion induced by the three used products. According to the results, ethyl silicate seems to represent the most successful product.
Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo; Natalia Rovella; Anna Arcudi; Vincenza Crupi; Domenico Majolino; Massimo Osanna; Rossella Pace; Alessia Pantuso; Luciana Randazzo; Michela Ricca; Nicola Ruggieri; Valentina Venuti; Mauro Francesco La Russa. New insights to assess the consolidation of stone materials used in built heritage: the case study of ancient graffiti (Tituli Picti) in the archaeological site of Pompeii. Heritage Science 2020, 8, 1 -10.
AMA StyleSilvestro Antonio Ruffolo, Natalia Rovella, Anna Arcudi, Vincenza Crupi, Domenico Majolino, Massimo Osanna, Rossella Pace, Alessia Pantuso, Luciana Randazzo, Michela Ricca, Nicola Ruggieri, Valentina Venuti, Mauro Francesco La Russa. New insights to assess the consolidation of stone materials used in built heritage: the case study of ancient graffiti (Tituli Picti) in the archaeological site of Pompeii. Heritage Science. 2020; 8 (1):1-10.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSilvestro Antonio Ruffolo; Natalia Rovella; Anna Arcudi; Vincenza Crupi; Domenico Majolino; Massimo Osanna; Rossella Pace; Alessia Pantuso; Luciana Randazzo; Michela Ricca; Nicola Ruggieri; Valentina Venuti; Mauro Francesco La Russa. 2020. "New insights to assess the consolidation of stone materials used in built heritage: the case study of ancient graffiti (Tituli Picti) in the archaeological site of Pompeii." Heritage Science 8, no. 1: 1-10.
The extractive capability of soluble salts in poultices treatments currently used in mortar conservation (ArbocelTM plus sepiolite; ArbocelTM, sepiolite and sand; Westox-Cocoon®) were tested to evaluate their efficiency and compatibility with specific mortar substrate. The pore size distribution of the experimental mortar substrate and of the blank dried poultices were preliminarily accomplished by mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). Desalination tests were carried out on specifically-formulated mortars after capillary absorption of Na2SO4 0.3 M solution. The efficiency of salt extraction was measured by means of electrical conductivity meter and ion chromatography. Among the tested products, Westox-Cocoon® showed the best performance in terms of the ability to extract soluble salts. It is the only poultice with a porosity distribution characterised by predominantly large macropores (20–30 µm), which guarantees it an extraordinary efficiency in the first phase of the extraction process (wetting/dissolving). This last aspect provides a useful term of comparison for conservators who actually use these products and a base of operational protocol more suitable to the needs of the restoration site.
L. Randazzo; G. Montana; A. Castiglia; M.F. La Russa. Salt extraction from lime-based mortars: An experimental study using different poultice formulations. Construction and Building Materials 2020, 255, 119391 .
AMA StyleL. Randazzo, G. Montana, A. Castiglia, M.F. La Russa. Salt extraction from lime-based mortars: An experimental study using different poultice formulations. Construction and Building Materials. 2020; 255 ():119391.
Chicago/Turabian StyleL. Randazzo; G. Montana; A. Castiglia; M.F. La Russa. 2020. "Salt extraction from lime-based mortars: An experimental study using different poultice formulations." Construction and Building Materials 255, no. : 119391.
Andrea Macchia; Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo; Laura Rivaroli; Marco Malagodi; Maurizio Licchelli; Natalia Rovella; Luciana Randazzo; Mauro Francesco La Russa. Comparative study of protective coatings for the conservation of Urban Art. Journal of Cultural Heritage 2020, 41, 232 -237.
AMA StyleAndrea Macchia, Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo, Laura Rivaroli, Marco Malagodi, Maurizio Licchelli, Natalia Rovella, Luciana Randazzo, Mauro Francesco La Russa. Comparative study of protective coatings for the conservation of Urban Art. Journal of Cultural Heritage. 2020; 41 ():232-237.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAndrea Macchia; Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo; Laura Rivaroli; Marco Malagodi; Maurizio Licchelli; Natalia Rovella; Luciana Randazzo; Mauro Francesco La Russa. 2020. "Comparative study of protective coatings for the conservation of Urban Art." Journal of Cultural Heritage 41, no. : 232-237.
This paper presents the first results about the provenance of obsidian fragments recovered in the archaeological site of Samshvilde (South Georgia, Caucasus) with the aim to obtain knowledge related to the network distribution and procurement of obsidian in Georgia. The geochemical characterization of thirty archaeological finds was obtained by the LA-ICP-MS method, an almost non-destructive technique capable of chemically characterizing the volcanic glass. A comparison of geochemical results obtained on both archaeological artefacts and geological samples collected from Chikiani outcrop in Georgia, together with literature data of southern Caucasus and eastern Turkey, allowed us to define the source of the archaeological obsidians of Samshvilde site. The majority of archaeological samples (28/30) shows a local provenance, precisely from Chikiani (Georgia) on the contrary the other two samples suggest a provenance from two different Armenian sources respectively Gegham and Akhurian volcanic system.
M. F. La Russa; L. Randazzo; Michela Ricca; N. Rovella; D. Barca; S.A. Ruffolo; D Berikashvili; L. Kvakhadze. The first archaeometric characterization of obsidian artifacts from the archaeological site of Samshvilde (South Georgia, Caucasus). Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences 2019, 11, 6725 -6736.
AMA StyleM. F. La Russa, L. Randazzo, Michela Ricca, N. Rovella, D. Barca, S.A. Ruffolo, D Berikashvili, L. Kvakhadze. The first archaeometric characterization of obsidian artifacts from the archaeological site of Samshvilde (South Georgia, Caucasus). Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences. 2019; 11 (12):6725-6736.
Chicago/Turabian StyleM. F. La Russa; L. Randazzo; Michela Ricca; N. Rovella; D. Barca; S.A. Ruffolo; D Berikashvili; L. Kvakhadze. 2019. "The first archaeometric characterization of obsidian artifacts from the archaeological site of Samshvilde (South Georgia, Caucasus)." Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences 11, no. 12: 6725-6736.
This paper presents the results of a laboratory experimentation carried out on stone materials in the framework of the CRATI project (Knowledge and Restoration through Advanced Integrated Technologies) aimed at testing new products with consolidating properties by means of an integrated methodological approach. After the preliminary characterization of stone materials collected in the pilot site, the second stage of the activities within the project were focused on the formulation and testing of products for the conservation of the same materials against decay, especially salt crystallization, one of the most aggressive and common degrading processes. The San Domenico Church, located in the old town of Cosenza (Calabria, Southern Italy) has been chosen as the pilot site and for the in situ tests. Several specimens with the same features of the stone materials used in San Domenico church were collected from a historical quarry near the city of Cosenza. These specimens were treated and then artificially degraded by salt crystallization tests in order to evaluate their susceptibility to weathering intensity. Three different consolidating products were used; respectively, two commercial and another one formulated in laboratory: (a) a suspension of nanosilica (Nano Estel®); (b) a suspension of nanolime (CaLoSiL®), and (c) a suspension of nano calcium-hydroxide dispersed in isopropyl alcohol and then mixed with diammonium hydrogen phosphate. A systematic approach, including minero-petrographic, geochemical and physico-mechanical techniques, was applied to evaluate (a) the nature and main features of materials; (b) the efficacy of consolidating treatments, and (c) the resistance of treated stone to the salt crystallization processes. The tested products demonstrated a significant efficiency to consolidate and protect stone material samples, enhancing their resistance to salt crystallization. Thus, such a case history may be useful in order to plan appropriate restoration interventions that consider the interactions between the building stone and the protective/consolidating product.
Michela Ricca; Emilia Le Pera; Maurizio Licchelli; Andrea Macchia; Marco Malagodi; Luciana Randazzo; Natalia Rovella; Silvestro A. Ruffolo; Maduka L. Weththimuni; Mauro F. La Russa. The CRATI Project: New Insights on the Consolidation of Salt Weathered Stone and the Case Study of San Domenico Church in Cosenza (South Calabria, Italy). Coatings 2019, 9, 330 .
AMA StyleMichela Ricca, Emilia Le Pera, Maurizio Licchelli, Andrea Macchia, Marco Malagodi, Luciana Randazzo, Natalia Rovella, Silvestro A. Ruffolo, Maduka L. Weththimuni, Mauro F. La Russa. The CRATI Project: New Insights on the Consolidation of Salt Weathered Stone and the Case Study of San Domenico Church in Cosenza (South Calabria, Italy). Coatings. 2019; 9 (5):330.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMichela Ricca; Emilia Le Pera; Maurizio Licchelli; Andrea Macchia; Marco Malagodi; Luciana Randazzo; Natalia Rovella; Silvestro A. Ruffolo; Maduka L. Weththimuni; Mauro F. La Russa. 2019. "The CRATI Project: New Insights on the Consolidation of Salt Weathered Stone and the Case Study of San Domenico Church in Cosenza (South Calabria, Italy)." Coatings 9, no. 5: 330.
This paper aims to carry out an archaeometric characterization of mortar samples taken from an underwater environment. The fishpond of the archaeological site of Castrum Novum (Santa Marinella, Rome, Italy) was chosen as a pilot site for experimentation. The masonry structures reached the maximum thickness at the apex of the fishpond (4.70 m) and consisted of a concrete conglomerate composed of slightly rough stones of medium size bound with non-hydraulic mortar. After sampling, for a complete characterization of selected mortar fragments, different and complementary techniques (stereomicroscopy, polarizing optical microscopy, and X-ray powder diffraction analysis) were carried out in order to: a) define the minero-petrographic features; and b) investigate their state of conservation. The obtained data allowed the determination of the main constituents of mortars from a compositional point of view. The raw materials, in fact, were quite homogeneous, as well as the ratio in which they were mixed, confirming the typical "recipe" used in Roman times to manufacture hydraulic-type mortars by adding pozzolana. At the same time, it was possible to identify the various degradation processes we were interested in, namely, biological colonization (bio-fouling) that develops differently according to environmental conditions. Based on characterization phase results, the research will help to develop adequate techniques for intervention (innovative tools and methods for the protection of underwater cultural heritage) with particular regard to cleaning and consolidating procedures to be carried out directly in situ.
Luciana Randazzo; Michela Ricca; Silvestro Ruffolo; Marco Aquino; Barbara Davidde Petriaggi; Flavio Enei; Mauro F. La Russa. An Integrated Analytical Approach to Define the Compositional and Textural Features of Mortars Used in the Underwater Archaeological Site of Castrum Novum (Santa Marinella, Rome, Italy). Minerals 2019, 9, 268 .
AMA StyleLuciana Randazzo, Michela Ricca, Silvestro Ruffolo, Marco Aquino, Barbara Davidde Petriaggi, Flavio Enei, Mauro F. La Russa. An Integrated Analytical Approach to Define the Compositional and Textural Features of Mortars Used in the Underwater Archaeological Site of Castrum Novum (Santa Marinella, Rome, Italy). Minerals. 2019; 9 (5):268.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLuciana Randazzo; Michela Ricca; Silvestro Ruffolo; Marco Aquino; Barbara Davidde Petriaggi; Flavio Enei; Mauro F. La Russa. 2019. "An Integrated Analytical Approach to Define the Compositional and Textural Features of Mortars Used in the Underwater Archaeological Site of Castrum Novum (Santa Marinella, Rome, Italy)." Minerals 9, no. 5: 268.
This work focused on the study of decorated pottery dated back to the 16th century from the Roman archaeological site of Villa dei Quintili, a monumental complex located in the south-eastern part of Rome (Italy). A minero-petrographic and geochemical study was undertaken to analyse five archaeological samples in order to define textural features and raw materials used for their production, along with the chemical and physical composition of the superficial decorative glazed coatings. For this purpose, different analytical methods were used, such as polarising optical microscope (POM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), micro-Raman spectroscopy, X-Ray fluorescence (XRF), and electron microprobe analysis coupled with energy dispersive spectrometry (EMPA-EDS). The results of such a multidisciplinary approach allowed us to achieve important results crucial to recognise the shards as majolica of the Renaissance period, improving knowledge about manufacturing processes of these renowned painted ceramic artefacts.
Michela Ricca; Giuseppe Paladini; Natalia Rovella; Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo; Luciana Randazzo; Vincenza Crupi; Barbara Fazio; Domenico Majolino; Valentina Venuti; Giuliana Galli; Mauro Francesco La Russa. Archaeometric Characterisation of Decorated Pottery from the Archaeological Site of Villa dei Quintili (Rome, Italy): Preliminary Study. Geosciences 2019, 9, 172 .
AMA StyleMichela Ricca, Giuseppe Paladini, Natalia Rovella, Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo, Luciana Randazzo, Vincenza Crupi, Barbara Fazio, Domenico Majolino, Valentina Venuti, Giuliana Galli, Mauro Francesco La Russa. Archaeometric Characterisation of Decorated Pottery from the Archaeological Site of Villa dei Quintili (Rome, Italy): Preliminary Study. Geosciences. 2019; 9 (4):172.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMichela Ricca; Giuseppe Paladini; Natalia Rovella; Silvestro Antonio Ruffolo; Luciana Randazzo; Vincenza Crupi; Barbara Fazio; Domenico Majolino; Valentina Venuti; Giuliana Galli; Mauro Francesco La Russa. 2019. "Archaeometric Characterisation of Decorated Pottery from the Archaeological Site of Villa dei Quintili (Rome, Italy): Preliminary Study." Geosciences 9, no. 4: 172.
The consolidation and protection of mud bricks are a challenge in the field of conservation of archeological sites. One of the solutions is represented by the coverage of the entire excavation that assures a protection against mud dissolution. Unfortunately, this is not always feasible, both for economical and practical issues. For these reasons, alternative solutions are needed. In this work, laboratory experimentation has been carried out in order to test the efficacy of some products to slow down the dissolution process and increase the brick toughness. Three typologies of raw materials taken from different outcrops (one from the Republic of Azerbaijan and two from Calabria region, Italy) have been characterized and used to build mud brick specimens. Four consolidation treatments were tested (ethyl silicate, potassium silicate, potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide) and different investigations have been performed to check their efficiency against the dissolution in water. Results suggested that the efficacy of each treatment is related to the main intrinsic characteristics of the raw material employed for the mud bricks manufacture. Among the tested products, nanolime and NaOH solution showed very poor performance, while ethyl silicate and KOH could be very promising compounds for successful conservation.
M. F. La Russa; N. Rovella; S. A. Ruffolo; F. Scarciglia; A. Macchia; M. Licchelli; M. Malagodi; F. Khalilli; L. Randazzo. Consolidation of earthen building materials: a comparative study. Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences 2019, 11, 4643 -4652.
AMA StyleM. F. La Russa, N. Rovella, S. A. Ruffolo, F. Scarciglia, A. Macchia, M. Licchelli, M. Malagodi, F. Khalilli, L. Randazzo. Consolidation of earthen building materials: a comparative study. Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences. 2019; 11 (9):4643-4652.
Chicago/Turabian StyleM. F. La Russa; N. Rovella; S. A. Ruffolo; F. Scarciglia; A. Macchia; M. Licchelli; M. Malagodi; F. Khalilli; L. Randazzo. 2019. "Consolidation of earthen building materials: a comparative study." Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences 11, no. 9: 4643-4652.