An experimental investigation on the damage mechanisms of red glutenite in the Mount Wuyi cultural and natural heritage site subject to acid rain and wet-dry cycles: a macro-to-micro approach

Acid rain and wet-dry cycles significantly degrade the physical and mechanical properties of red glutenite, a rock type at Mount Wuyi's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Research reveals that as acidity increases and exposure to these cycles prolongs, key properties like dry density, wave velocity, compressive strength, and elastic modulus decline exponentially or linearly. The study used advanced techniques—including cold field emission scanning electron microscopy (CFE-SEM), image processing, and X-ray diffraction—to uncover how rock dissolution and desiccation interact, altering microstructure and mineral composition. A predictive model for uniaxial compressive strength was developed, offering critical insights for preserving this cultural and natural heritage.

Dong, Q., Sun, X., Sheng, J., & Lei, N. (2024). An experimental investigation on the damage mechanisms of red glutenite in the Mount Wuyi cultural and natural heritage site subject to acid rain and wet-dry cycles: a macro-to-micro approach. Heritage Science, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40494-024-01393-0