The Process and Mechanisms of Freezing and Thawing Deterioration of Petroglyphs under Snowmelt and Rainfall Infiltration

Freeze–thaw cycles under the conditions of snowmelt and rainfall infiltration in winter are triggers for petroglyph weathering. Rock samples from Helan Mountains were subjected freeze–thaw various laboratory testing, mass, elastic wave velocity unconfined compressive strength tested. The results show that mass loss rate, decreased. In addition, according to XRD analyses, content calcite feldspar decreased, SEM microscopic pores grew. Considering mineral micro-voids, variation decreases order: group, normal group. However, strength, opposite observed. This research contributes a better understanding weathering processes mechanisms petroglyphs winter.