On Research and Practice in In-Situ Conservation of Architectural Surfaces in China: with a focus on injection grouting for plaster reattachment

Abstract

The in situ conservation of architectural surfaces is seen as crucial practice in order to conserve them in due consideration of all their heritage values. Their cultural significance is closely related to the site and contributes to its integrity and authenticity. Especially in the case of decorated plaster and wall paintings detaching them from their context diminishes their own value as well as the significance of the place from which they were removed. But additionally plain plasters may also contain valuable information on historical materials and techniques, carry information about historical events, or indicate a former use of the site. This article aims to bring together the principles of in situ conservation to emphasize its importance. It discusses the challenges of in situ conservation of architectural surfaces specific to the situation in China, both in terms of current conservation practice, and in terms of variety of materials and climate across the country. Finally it discusses challenges in a primary problem of intervention: the reattachment of delaminated plaster from its support structure. Injection grouts on the basis of traditional local materials but with improved performance through new technologies are seen as important area of research in order to develop compatible conservation materials for sustainable interventions.