The restoration of a stone bridge in semiarid environment: Puente Viejo of Elche (SE Spain)

Abstract

The Puente Viejo de Elche or Old Bridge of Elche was built using mainly Ferriol Stone biocalcarenite. In 2004, some broken fragments appeared in the stonework as well as signs of different forms of weathering: alveolization, flaking and differential decay in some materials. In the past, cement concrete mortar was used at the base of the bridge to cover the ashlars and this caused severe damage. During 2005, some important restoration work was carried out. Surface salt was partially removed by means of aluminium silicate powder micro projection abrasion and, after that, FK-12 (salt and microorganism remover by Fakolith Co.) and the Tecosel cleaner and salt inhibitor by Edylteco Co. were applied. Some of the ashlars with a vertical sedimentary layer revealed the most severe damage and were replaced with recycled San Julian Stone. During the latest preventive measures to be carried Out, the ashlars undergoing granular disintegration have been reinforced using FK-34, and whole of the bridge has been sprayed with the FK-37 water-repellent.