Microbial growth and air pollution in carbonate rock weathering. Preliminary results of a in situ experimental study
Pitzurra, L.; Moroni, B.; Iurlo, A.; Di Cesare, A.M.; Sbaraglia, G.; Poli, G.; Bistoni, F.
Annali di Chimica 91(11-12): 785-793
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-4592 PMID: 11836956 Document Number: 535850
Preliminary results on limestone weathering caused by air pollution and microbial colonization are presented in this study. Outdoor exposure experimental assays were performed on Scaglia limestone samples. Samples were exposed in two areas in Perugia (Italy) that differ for degree of urban air pollution. At different times of exposure, ranging from 1 to 12 months, microbial contamination and textural modifications of sampled surfaces were evaluated by microbiological procedures, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. After one year of exposure a significant fungal colonization and the presence of weathering products (i.e. gypsum) were detected on sampled surfaces.