Thermodynamic exchanges between the external boundary layer and the indoor microclimate at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, Italy: the problem of conservation of ancient works of art

Authors: Camuffo D.¹; Sturaro G.²; Valentino A.²

Source: Boundary-Layer Meteorology, Volume 92, Number 2, August 1999 , pp. 243-262(20)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, is an example of how ancient buildings with thick walls lessen the impact of the external temperature and humidity variations. The external influence on the internal microclimate is studied in order to gather information on how the building exchanges heat and moisture. Correlations between outdoor and indoor values are found. The results are applied to the calculation of the condensation-evaporation cycles inside micropores due to the Kelvin effect, to assess their impact on works of arts placed inside and outside the Basilica. It was found that the building attenuation is not sufficient to avoid damage due to condensation-evaporation cycles on stones and plasters. Some suggestions are made in order to mitigate the temperature variations during the liturgical offices.

Keywords: Artwork conservation; Building meteorology; Heat and moisture exchanges; Internal boundary layers

Language: English

Document Type: Regular paper

Affiliations: 1: CNR-ICTIMA, Corso Stati Uniti 4, Padova, Italy 2: Consorzio Padova Ricerche, Corso Spagna 12, Padova, Italy

Publication date: 1999-08-01