The restoration of "The Tyrrhenian Sea" - Consolidation and protection

The degraded surfaces were consolidated with the application of nano-silicates in order to restore the compactness of the stone material and make the detached parts adhere again. A careful revision of the grout was carried out, removing those that no longer adhered and filling the gaps and discontinuities present on the stone surface, so as to even out the surface and make it more resistant to deterioration agents (such as atmospheric, chemical and biological pollutants, as well as water infiltration).

At the end of the cycle of interventions, polysiloxanes were applied to protect surfaces that are excessively porous and exposed to weathering, moisture from condensation, or animal and plant microorganisms. This treatment makes it possible to change the surface tension of the substrate, so that rain does not penetrate the vertical surface, but flows over it and creating a continuous film, which thus allows the substrate to breathe, without changing its balance.

Ammonium carbonate compresses are applied to areas where black scab deposits are present, using paper pulp as a carrier. The pack is covered with aluminum foil to keep the pack as moist as possible for as long as possible. After half an hour the compress is removed and the now solubilized dirt is removed mechanically with brushes and water.

To consolidate the surface of the stone, a nano-lime product diluted in distilled water is applied, and then all the old grout, now no longer adhered and made with improper materials, is removed. New grouts are then made with Botticino marble powder and hydraulic lime.