Exploring the pore system of carbonate rocks through a multi-analytical approach

The presence and distribution of pores in natural stones affect their durability and aesthetic value, especially when exposed to weathering agents like salt crystallization and freeze–thaw cycles. In this study, a multi-analytical approach was used to analyse the pore structure of twelve carbonate rocks, including different types of limestone and the Carrara marble. Mercury intrusion porosimetry, digital imaging analysis on backscattered electron images taken at the scanning electron microscope, and micro-computed tomography were used to overcome the limitations of each technique and create a more accurate reconstruction of the pore structure. This approach can aid in predicting the deterioration processes stones in heritage structures.