Characterization of Soluble Salts on the Frescoes by Saturnino Gatti in the Church of San Panfilo in Villagrande di Tornimparte (L’Aquila)

Salt crystallization is one of the most dangerous forms degradation affecting frescoes. This phenomenon can lead to cracking, flaking and detachment pictorial layer, ultimately ruining work art. However, characterization soluble salts via chemical analysis be employed determine conditions artifact establish proper restoration and/or conservation strategies adopted. In this archaeometric study, a first-ever related phenomena on frescoes by Saturnino Gatti in church San Panfilo Villagrande di Tornimparte (L’Aquila) was carried out. Sampling performed areas with evident detachments, exfoliations saline (efflorescences). Eleven samples powder fragments were taken from different panels fresco: nine Panels A, C, D E two top part vault. Chemical characterizations using analytical techniques: ion chromatography (IC) attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Ion used for quantification main ions evaluate presence salts, whereas characterize mineralogical phases. The results show efflorescence consisting newly formed gypsum carbonate closer ground. Furthermore, good correlation between sodium chloride observed, indicating an composed chloride. Capillary rise infiltration highlighted as sources salts. information will crucial guiding future or operations.