In this work, the contribution potential of non-destructive methods of testing is studied in order to assess, diagnose and
assert building materials' diagnosis & quality control, with emphasis given on Sustainable Construction. To this end, the
following techniques are implemented: fiber-optics microscopy, digital image processing, scanning electron microscopy,
pulse/lock-in thermography, acoustic emission as well as ultrasounds. Furthermore, in addition to the above, the maturity
method for measurement of compressive strength is applied and correlated to the array of full field non-destructive
methods of testing. The results of the study clearly demonstrate how effective non-destructive methods of testing can be,
in revealing and determining highly applicable data in a real-time, in situ and efficient manner.
The church of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is a world heritage monument that epitomizes the byzantine ecclesiastic
architecture. The church is decorated with mosaics from various historic periods. The preservation state of the mosaics is
of high importance. In this study, non-destructive techniques (ground penetrating radar, infra-red thermography, fibreoptics
microscopy) were employed on south upper gallery mosaic areas. The main aim of this on-site investigation was
the evaluation of the preservation state of the mosaics and the previous interventions (materials characterization and
decay diagnosis) in order to assess the performance of previous conservation/restoration interventions, as well as to
verify the presence of mosaics in layers below the external plaster surfaces. Results indicated that is indeed possible to
locate the grid of rendered mosaics. Regarding the preservation state of the mosaics, it was indicated that the main
environmental decay factors were the high relative humidity levels with co-action of salt damp as well as the air
pollutants. Moreover, it was revealed that previous incompatible restoration/conservation interventions have often
accelerated the mosaics' degradation processes. Using non-destructive techniques it was possible to identify areas where
the mosaic materials (tesserae and mortars) presented decay problems and in addition identify sub-layers that pose risk of
detachment or decay intensification. In this way, NDT can contribute to the development of a strategic planning for
mosaics conservation, protection and revealing.
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