Geometric indices to quantify textures irregularity of stone masonry walls. (15th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Almeida, Celeste; Guedes, João Paulo; Arêde, António; Costa, Aníbal
• Is Part Of: Construction & building materials. Volume 111(2016)
• Page Start: 199
• Page End: 208
• Publication Date: 2016-05-15
• Subjects: Stone masonry walls -- Geometric characterization -- Image analysis -- Indices methodology; Building materials -- Periodicals; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2016.02.038
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0950-0618

Abstract

Highlights: Geometrical analysis using digital processing techniques applied to 2D images. Geometric irregularity definition of stone masonry by shape and alignments indices. Application to old stone masonry walls located in Porto (Portugal) historic centre. Three level irregularity classification based on indices ranges and visual surveys. Abstract: This paper aims at developing a general methodology supported by quantifiable geometric indices to classify the irregularity of stone masonry walls by direct observation of the elevation texture. This classification is based on indicators proposed in procedures developed in Italy, complemented with new tools and criteria. In particular, the evaluation of the geometric irregularity is done through a set of partial indices that consider the stones' shape, size and their organization along horizontal and vertical alignments. The methodology was applied to twenty-four granitic stone masonry walls selected from old buildings located at Porto city centre, in Portugal, and a classification is proposed based on irregularity levels graded according to the ranges of the different indices found for these walls.