Analysis on Material Characteristics of Restored Areas with Mortar and Basis of Surface Deterioration on the Stupa of State Preceptor Jigwang from Beopchensaji Temple Site in Wonju, Korea

Abstract

The Stupa of State Preceptor Jigwang from Beopcheonsa Temple Site in Wonju (National Treasure) is a representative stupa of the Goryeo Dynasty, with outstanding Buddhist carvings and splendid patterns, clearly indicating its honoree and year of construction. However, it was destroyed by bombing during the Korean War (1950-1953) and repaired and restored with cement and reinforcing bars in 1957. The surface condition of the original stone shows long-term deterioration due to the m ortar used in past restorations. In order to identify the exact causes of deterioration, the m ortar and surface contaminants on the original stone were analyzed. Portlandite, calcite, ettringite, and gypsum from the mortar were identified, and its ongoing deterioration was observed through pH measurements and the neutralization reaction test. Analysis of surface contaminants identified calcite and gypsum, both poorly water-soluble substances, and their growth in volume among rock-forming minerals was observed by microscopy. Based on those results, semi-quantitative analysis of Ca and S contents significantly influencing the formation of salt crystals was conducted using P-XRF to analyze the basis of surface deterioration, and cross-validation was performed by comparing the body stone affected by the mortar and the upper stylobate stone unaffected by the mortar. Results indicate that the elements are directly involved in the surface deterioration of the body stone.