Nondestructive X-ray analysis and petrophysical evaluation of a Cybele votive plaque

A votive plaque to Cybele, a unique stone monument from the Roman province of Thracia, was studied by nondestructive X-ray analysis and petrophysical methods (including free-water saturation and ultrasonic velocities) with the aim of determining the mechanical properties of the stone and the efficiency of the conservation procedures. It was shown that treatment with Paraloid B 72 toluol solution results in large increase in Young’s and shear modulus of the stone. The analysis of two supposedly detached fragments of the monument indicated that one of them is probably not part of the original material.