Criteria of waxes’ performance in the consolidation of steatites (soapstone) in heritage buildings

Abstract

The present work investigates the use of consolidants in stone material of integrated built heritage undergoing the action of some acids derived from pollutant air gases on the steatites (soapstone) of architectural works as well as the description of the correlated chemical reactions. It is proposed to examine these atmospheric pollutants, highlighting the SO 2 and NO 2 gases and their respective acids. If these gases from fossil fuel burning act decisively in the stone material and one can slow down and/or prevent degradation through the use of consolidant chemicals with certain characteristics by means of technical standards, e.g. the quality of the consolidation, depth of penetration, porosity, consolidating compatibility with rock, final appearance and safety during application. Initially, the basic characteristics and chemical composition of the stone material were studied as well as its occurrence in equity work properties. This research addresses the consolidation of steatites (soapstone) by the use of wax for the control of degradation in stone material heritage.