Microscopic and macroscopic characterization of the porosity of marble as a function of temperature and impregnation

Various methods were used in order to study how temperature cycling initiates changes in the porosity of fresh and impregnated marbles. The results indicated that intergranular decohesion was more pronounced in calcitic marble than dolomitic marble. The impregnation agents had a mitigating effect on the intergranular decohesion. Use of fluorescence microscopy, among the other methods, appears to give inexpensive and reliable information about the internal structure of marble. A better understanding of the effect that temperature has on the porosity of marble could be used as a guide for selection of suitable stone material for exterior use as well as an indication for appropriate conditioning of the samples before physical property testing.