Weathering features of a five-story stone pagoda compared to its quarrying site in Geumgolsan Mountain, Korea

Understanding the long- and short-term weathering features according to rock type is very important for maintaining original form of stone heritages. In this study, material characteristics a deteriorated five-story pagoda were compared with those fresh rocks from its quarrying site at nearby Geumgolsan Mountain, Korea, diagnose degree damage develop comprehensive interpretation mechanism. The was built lithic tuff comprising pumice phenocrysts such as quartz, K-feldspar, plagioclase, mica based on plagioclase substrates; mineralogical geochemical are similar rocks. demonstrated low ultrasonic velocity 2863 m/s high water absorption rate porosity 9.5% 19.2%, respectively, which poorer than physical properties (i.e., 3336 m/s, 8.65%, 17.83%). lithological considerable influence stability pagoda. particular, fragments relatively weak detached cavities various sizes. These introduced moisture within rock, produced oxides hydroxides iron manganese. addition, contaminants dust, salt crystals, clay minerals, microorganisms adhering surface accelerated physical, chemical, biological weathering. results study will be realizing stable long-term conservation Mountain.