Tuff rocks diseases mechanism analysis and preservation in Chengde Mountain Resort

A critical threat to the tuff stone structures of UNESCO's Mountain Resort and its Outlying Temples, Chengde, has been identified: severe damage from freeze-thaw cycles due to extreme winter temperatures (-20°C). This study reveals that such environmental stress causes significant deterioration, including exfoliation and deep cracks, compromising both the integrity and stability of these cultural relics. The research highlights the urgent need for preservation strategies but notes a gap in understanding tuff rock durability under environmental factors and its micro-level deterioration mechanisms. By analyzing the impact of freeze-thaw cycles on tuff stone structures—such as inscriptions, statues, and temple foundations—the study underscores the vulnerability of these heritage sites to climate-induced decay.

(Ed.). (2015). Tuff rocks diseases mechanism analysis and preservation in Chengde Mountain Resort. Ancient Underground Opening and Preservation, 113–122. https://doi.org/10.1201/b19169-18