The conservation of globigerina limestone : current research within the department of the built heritage

Abstract

This paper is a review of the research on Globigerina Limestone being carried out by the Department of the Built Heritage of the University of Malta, research which commenced under the auspices of its predecessor, the Institute for Masonry and Construction Research. The main areas of research concern the characterization, durability, deterioration, conservation and treatment of the local building stone and other building materials, including traditional mortars. This work is being carried out primarily by postgraduate (Masters and PhD) students. Current research topics include the characterisation and durability of building stone, and the treatment of Globigerina Limestone with oxalates, nanolimes and salt inhibitors. The evaluation of the effects of linseed oil coatings is also being carried out.