Evaluation of hydroxyapatite effects for the consolidation of a Hellenistic-Roman rock-cut chamber tomb at Athienou-Malloura in Cyprus

The effectiveness of hydroxyapatite (HAP)-based treatment for the consolidation of a Hellenistic-Roman chamber tomb of Mağara Tepeşi at Athienou-Malloura in Cyprus was evaluated. Diammonium hydrogen phosphate was employed as the precursor enabling reactions with the calcium carbonate from the powdery marlstone to form HAP. DAP solutions were applied in three distinctive parts of the tomb. Compositional and microstructural evolutions of the test areas were compared and scientifically assessed immediately following treatment, and after the period of one year. Results indicated an immediate formation of hydroxyapatite after the DAP application with no significant variation between the three test areas. The HAP in situ formation has shown a great potential as an onsite consolidation treatment of weathered archaeological limestone surfaces.