Effect of thermal effect on lattice transformation and physical properties of white marble

Abstract White marble, renowned for its high resistance to natural conditions and aesthetic appeal, is extensively utilized in stone components like ancient tablets and carvings. Over time, these artifacts undergo complex aging; key factors include atmospheric temperature, humidity, light exposure, and acid rain. Among these, thermal effects play a crucial role in altering white marble’s properties. This study employs white marble rock samples from the Fangshan area in Beijing to examine the impact of temperature on its aging characteristics. Key parameters, including color, mass loss rate, porosity, ultrasonic wave velocity, and mechanical properties, are measured before and after heating the samples. Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyze the morphological changes in samples after heating, and the effects of thermal exposure on the marble’s lattice structure are investigated using X-ray diffraction. Specifically, the study explores how temperature influences the efflorescence of white marble. Findings indicate that heating at 300°C causes the lattice of the sample to transform, significantly affecting its physical properties such as the Leeb hardness decreases by 30.66%, and the ultrasonic velocity reduces by 35.08%. At the same time, the Leeb hardness and ultrasonic wave speed of the samples heated at 300°C are similar to the values of stone relics at the cultural relics site.