Ultrasonic nondestructive testing of building materials for the diagnosis and characterization of the decay due to salts crystallization

Abstract

The possibility to use ultrasonic nondestructive testing for the diagnosis and characterization of decay in building materials due to salts crystallization is here investigated. Salts crystallization is one of the main sources of decay for stone materials, especially for cultural heritage items underwater or exposed to water, and its early detection as well as a continuous monitoring is highly desirable. Currently, this often requires the use of destructive methods and the sampling of the items under inspection. This work shows promises to the successful use for this purpose of ultrasonic nondestructive testing.