Geophysical surveys for the restoration of Branciforte Palace in Palermo

Abstract

A multi-methodological and non-invasive geophysical study has been carried out in order to support the restoration project of the historic Branciforte Palace in Palermo. Ground Penetrating Radar profiles and an Electrical Resistivity Tomography ERT, carried out on the floor of the stable of the Palace, allowed to evaluate in detail the state of consolidation of the subsoil, in correspondence of a double row of marble columns, some of which were affected by differential subsidence. These columns have been investigated by means of Ultrasonic Tomography to verify their state of degradation. Moreover Infrared Thermography images of the internal and external walls and of the vaults highlighted differences in the type of masonry and in the state of the plaster. Finally the seismic characterization of the foundation soils was obtained by means of a Vertical Seismic Profile, Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) and Horizontal to Vertical Spectral Ratio microtremor analysis.