Abstract

The West Stone Pagoda at Gameunsaji Temple Site constructed in the 7th century is mainly composed of dark grey dacitic tuff bearing small numerous dioritic xenoliths. These xenoliths resulted in small holes due to differential weathering process from the host rocks. Physical strength of the pagoda was decreased due to weathering and damage caused by petrological, biological and coastal environmental factors. The southeastern part of the pagoda was extremely deteriorated that the rock surface showed exfoliation, fracture, open cavity, granular decomposition of minerals and salt crystallization by seawater spray from the eastern coast. The stone blocks were intersected by numerous cracks and contaminated by subsequent material such as cement mortar and iron plates. Also, the pagoda was colonized by algae, fungi, lichen and bryophytes on the roof rock surface and the gaps between the blocks. As a result of ultrasonic test, the rock materials fell under Highly Weathered Grade (HW) or Completely Weathered Grade (CW). Thus, conservational intervention is essentially required to prevent further weakening of the rock materials.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.