Stone deterioration and replacement of natural building stones at the Cologne cathedral - A contribution to the preservation of cultural heritage

A comparative analysis of stone deterioration at three medieval cathedrals—Cologne, Xanten, and Altenberg—revealed that industrial pollution significantly accelerates weathering processes in both carbonate and silicate stones. The study identified distinct weathering patterns, such as crust formation and structural degradation, which vary in intensity based on environmental conditions. By correlating petrophysical properties with empirical data from laboratory tests and in situ observations, the research developed a weathering model for Drachenfels Trachyt and proposed a systematic approach to evaluate the compatibility of historical and modern replacement stones. This work provides critical insights into the preservation challenges posed by material interactions and environmental factors at UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Graue, B. J. Stone deterioration and replacement of natural building stones at the Cologne cathedral - A contribution to the preservation of cultural heritage. https://doi.org/10.53846/goediss-4185