Evaluation of nanoparticulate consolidants applied to Novelda Stone (Spain)

The main objective of this work is to test several nanoconsolidant treatments (pure Nano Estel, 1:1 diluted Nano Estel and Tecnadis ZR-110), with the aim of improving the intergranular cohesion of the Novelda Stone. The treatments were applied in laboratory by capillary suction and their effectiveness and depth of penetration have been evaluated on the basis of the petrophysical characteristics of the stone (petrography, elemental physical properties, hydric properties and ultrasound propagation), before and after consolidation. Subsequently, in order to estimate the durability of the treatments, accelerated ageing tests (salt crystallisation, freeze-thaw and wet-dry) were carried out. According to the results, we can conclude that none of the treatments is suitable for the treatment of Novelda stone. However, we consider that with further in-depth study Tecnadis ZR-110 could offer good results.