On “franka” and “soll” Globigerina Limestone
The Institute has, since its inception, been carrying out research, also in collaboration with the Department of Chemistry of the University of Malta, and foreign institutions, on the characterisation, properties and durability of Globigerina Limestone. This ongoing research has resulted in a number of publications (see list of publications).
On salt inhibitors
The Institute is currently carrying out research, led by Dr Assunta Marrocchi of the Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Italy and Dr Maria Laura Santarelli of CISTeC - Centro Interdip. di Scienza e Tecnica per la Conservazione del Patrimonio Storico-Architettonico, Università degli Studi di Roma "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy, using the crystallization inhibition properties of functionalised organic compounds to prevent and/or to control crystal growth in porous stones. These products, which are soluble in water or alcohol and non toxic, are being tested on salt-containing Globgerina Limestone, both in the laboratory and in situ. The latter testing is being carried out in collaboration with Heritage Malta.
Current MSc and MPhil Areas of Research
