A simulation study of dust transport on an ancient amphitheatre: The Delphi example

Abstract

Abstract The open air amphitheatre at Delphi in Greece is a structure of sublime architectural beauty, admired the world over. This study explores, through architectural and fluid mechanical modelling, the connection between layout, natural topography, the amphitheatre's orientation, and the prevalent climatic conditions and relates these factors to their contribution to the erosion of the theatre by chemical breakdown. A study on the phenomenon of natural dust transport and saltation mechanisms, and eventually the weathering of the fabric of the theatre was realized through the simulation of PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations, carried out using sophisticated environmental fluid mechanical software ENVI-met, for the very first time. Thereafter, a relationship is drawn between the concentration of dust simulated in the region to that deposited on the boundary walls of the theatre in a brief discourse. The simulation also quantitatively compiles the effect of scattering random trees of a specific height, akin to the ones found around the theatre. Moreover, the study gives a qualitative description on the mechanism of dust accumulation over a period of time and draws a limit on their accretion for building spaces. The paper further considers how the presence of strategically placed trees around the site of heritage is a simple and yet effectively quantified means to decrease the deposition of dust and hence diminish the effects of weathering, significantly. The basic chemistry of the degradation due to SO 2 and NO 2 has been examined in order to depict the successive mechanisms involved in the chemical breakdown. Safer and yet unconventional methods of cleaning such as the use of Fuller's Earth has been suggested as a measure of conservation of structures that have been chemically and physically damaged. This phenomenon exemplifies how dust particles carried by winds are slowly affecting structures that hold cultural value to nations.