Towards the definition of Transformation Stratigraphic Unit (TSU) as new section of the extended matrix methodology

This study explores the interpretation of degradation and alteration phenomena as stratigraphic units, showing the preliminary results of ongoing research concerning new investigative methods and tools useful to formalize transformative processes on built heritage, in a chronological perspective. Merging conservation sciences with archaeology, the study introduces a new section of the Extended Matrix (EM) method: the Transformation Stratigraphic Unit (TSU). The aim of this work is to assess a new method for documenting and investigating cultural heritage, by generating scientifically reliable reconstructive hypotheses, and by analysing and comparing the mutual interaction of different degenerative phenomena and their relationship. The current workflow, still tentative, utilizes open-source tools and is designed to be replicable and it has been applied to the case study of the architectural complex of S. Pietro in Segni (RM). The current workflow, still tentative, utilizes open-source tools and is designed to be replicable and it has been applied to the case study of the architectural complex of S. Pietro in Segni (RM).