Conservation studies on ornamental and building stones of north-eastern Sicily. Hydric and colorimetric investigations

In this paper we report on the results regarding the hydric properties of l ithic materials widely used in north-eastern Sicily. We report also on the hydrophobic properties of these stones treated with some preserving product s (silanes, siloxanes, epoxides, perfluoropolyethers, acrylates, acrylsilic ones). In addition, the quantitative colour readings of the untreated and t reated stones are presented, together with their chromatic alterations afte r artificial UV weathering. Final considerations on the selection of the be st regime treatment are also reported.