A Morphological Study of Greenschist Weathering on Dated Coastal Structures, South Devon, UK

Three dated structures up to 450 years in age display the effects of coastal weathering of the greenschist of which they are constructed. A variety of weathering forms is present. The various topographic surfaces of the structures create variation in weathering environments and consequent weathering processes and rates. Weathering is enhanced by direct exposure to salt-bearing spray and by humid conditions, and apparently limited by direct exposure to solar radiation. The maximum rates of weathering on the three surfaces approximate to 0·6 mm a−1 over this period, consistent with measured contemporary weathering rates for a natural surface formed by this rock type in a nearby coastal location.