The sol–gel process applied in the stone conservation

This review presents an overview of sol–gel technology in the field of stone conservation, discussing the underlying physics and chemistry of sol–gel and providing an overview of the use of sol–gel processing in stone conservation. This review also discusses the relationship between the sol–gel process, its structure, the mechanism in conservation as parameters influencing silica polymerization within the stone and on specific synthesis parameters in silane chemistry and mechanical behavior. In recent years, research on sol–gel science has increased due to the promising results of this technique, especially in the field of conservation of old buildings that require the preservation of the original stone with which they were built. In general, it is shown that a change in sol–gel parameters has a significant impact on stone conservation. This review indicates how sol–gel technology can be exploited to investigate and improve stone conservation. [Figure not available: see fulltext.].