Optimization of cutting process for ancient masonry: The Greek gymnasium in Naples

In 2003, an ancient Greek Gymnasium was found in Naples, Italy, during the excavation for a new underground station. The artifacts had to be cut into blocks to be temporarily removed from the site and then reallocated after the end of the work. In this article, after describing the results of the chemical analyses and mechanical tests performed on the masonry specimens extracted from the gymnasium, a model to describe the cutting process is proposed. By means of this model, the optimal relations between kinetic, static, and energy quantities have been found, which can improve the regularity of the cutting process, permitting to minimize damage on bricks and mortar. A key physical quantity - called the "cutting strength" - is introduced and calculated through back analysis, starting from the experimental data recorded on site. The values of the cutting strength can be related to the results of the compression tests by means of a scaling law obtained through a fractal approach. Finally, a model for the wear of the cutting tools, accelerated by the dry cutting conditions, is also put forward. Copyright © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.