Architectural non-structural elements (NSEs) and heritage safety: restoration interventions for the seismic vulnerability reduction

Recurring collapses or detachments involving non-structural decorative elements in historic buildings highlight their fragility and the urgency of appropriate conservation measures. These phenomena underscore the need for integrated approaches aimed at their protection. The ongoing research presented in this contribution seeks to explore and develop innovative materials — specifically protective and consolidating paints — for reinforcement and restoration of ancient artificial stone-based components. The aim is to mitigate their vulnerability to environmental exposure and seismic activity, while also protecting them from anthropogenic threats such as pollution and climate change, which can accelerate ageing processes and material decay. A particular focus concerns the mortar-like materials, historically used to create stuccoes, pilaster strips and string courses that characterize the rhythmic composition of heritage façades. The interventions proposed adhere to key architectural conservation principles of transparency, reversibility, and compatibility; in this regard, the design and application of graphene-based composites and other advanced nanomaterials present promising solutions. Their effectiveness is evaluated through experimental characterization and comparative mechanical testing campaigns involving several prototypes, according to different mix-designs, as-built and after the interventions’ application.