Evaluating the effectiveness of consolidation through laboratory and in situ tests for the conservation of frescoes in hypogean environments of Marsala (Italy)

Key Points

• To assess the effectiveness of different nanomaterials for fresco consolidation in hypogeal environments.
• Laboratory tests comparing nanolime, nanosilica, and nano Ba(OH)2
• In situ tests on frescoes from Santa Maria della Grotta and Crispia Salvia.
• Evaluation focused on breathability, color change, and stability.
• Ba(OH)2 demonstrated strong consolidation with high breathability and minimal color change.
• Nanosilica was effective but reduced vapor flow, impacting fresco condition.
• Nanolime caused whitening and less stability compared to Ba(OH)2.