Experimental procedure for studying the degradation and alteration of limestone slabs applied on exterior cladding

The studied limestone is a well known Portuguese natural stone that occurs in Valverde—Alcanede region, located the Maciço Calcário Estremenho (center of Portugal). This used several exterior and interior applications such as paving, cladding, masonry decorations. Slabs made were installed ventilated facade with “kerf” anchoring system building Valencia (Spain). After approximately five years, signs degradation detected on facades through changes color, enhancment cracks fissures caused instability collapse slabs. Limestone slabs comprise irregular patterns due to rock cutting across stylolites. These features represent ideal paths for fluid circulation slab can be identified vulnerability zones applications. Experimental procedure included laboratory analyses study clays iron oxide contents. Microscopic petrography, XRD SEM observations important identify interaction clay material stylolites fossil contours. Results show importance establishing standard methods selecting cladding From results, it possible understand minerals have strong influence mechanical performance this stone. Among other remarks, results development procedures acknowledge structure mineral composition before setting these products construction materials. Proper selection was found avoid degradation, hence contribute prevent accidents promote user safety economic impacts.