Study and Restoration of the Yi Ma Wu Hui Layer of the Ancient Coating on the Putuo Zongcheng Temple

Research on the Putuo Zongcheng Temple in Macao's historic center reveals that nonblood Yi Ma Wu Hui (YMWH) techniques were used in its ancient coatings, a discovery confirmed through advanced analytical methods. The study employed Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to characterize the YMWH layer and compare it with commercial restoration materials. This comparison validated the use of nonblood YMWH processes, enabling a successful restoration that preserves the temple's original structure. The findings enhance understanding of traditional coating techniques, offering valuable insights for the preservation of ancient cultural architecture.

Peifan, Q., Deqi, Y., Qi, M., Aijun, S., Jingqi, S., Zengjun, Z., & Jianwei, H. (2020). Study and Restoration of the Yi Ma Wu Hui Layer of the Ancient Coating on the Putuo Zongcheng Temple. International Journal of Architectural Heritage, 15(11), 1707–1721. https://doi.org/10.1080/15583058.2020.1719232