Surface Consolidation of Ancient Plasters: the problem of the Efficacy Evaluation

The consolidation of historical plasters, particularly in the case of painted or decorated one, is a very exhausting task. The lack of suitable evaluation protocols makes rather difficult the choice among the available consolidants, in spite of the research improvements which are patenting new consolidation products. This paper is aimed at exploring the suitability of the “four point bend test” in validating the consolidation efficacy of different products. Mortar specimens were treated with different consolidation materials (polymeric and low molecular weight) carefully applied by brush. A thorough comparison between treated and untreated materials has been carried out and discussed.