Biological Deterioration of Calcarenite by Caloplaca Lichens at Sabratha Archaeological Site, NW Libya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65405/.11.ملحق%2041.2245Keywords:
Calcarenite, Gargaresh formation, Sabratha, biological weathering, lichens, Caloplaca.Abstract
This study investigates the impact of biological weathering on Roman and Byzantine calcarenite monuments at the Sabratha archaeological site in Libya, specifically focusing on colonization by Caloplaca lichen species. Comparative analysis of total carbonate content between fresh and weathered stone samples was conducted using insoluble acid residue experiments. The results revealed a significant reduction in calcite content in weathered samples compared to fresh ones. Furthermore, petrographic observations of thin sections indicated that fresh calcarenite building stones are characterized by dominant calcite cement, whereas weathered samples show substantial degradation of the stone fabric. These findings highlight the critical role of lichen-induced biodeterioration in the irreversible loss of Mediterranean cultural heritage.
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