EN 16515:2015
(Main)Conservation of Cultural Heritage - Guidelines to characterize natural stone used in cultural heritage
Conservation of Cultural Heritage - Guidelines to characterize natural stone used in cultural heritage
This European Standard specifies a methodology for the characterization of sound or deteriorated stones by using the most appropriate analytical techniques on samples taken from the object.
This European Standard contains guidelines for the selection of methods to determine mineralogical, textural, physical, chemical and mechanical properties of natural stone used in cultural heritage monuments and objects. This information is used to define rock typology and to evaluate the stone’s condition with respect to its conservation as well as for understanding of deterioration processes of natural stone. Where possible existing standards are referred to and guidance provided where different specimens are required and additional methods used. The methods described are generally destructive, however, non-destructive (NDT) methods are always preferable to methods with a minimum of destruction and those are always preferable to destructive methods.
Methods used for stone analysis can vary depending upon the objectives of the work. All investigation and analysis need be proportional to the significance of the building or artefact being investigated, its condition and the likely level of intervention. This European Standard will be used to determine the kind, extent, and objectives of the examination to be made.
Erhaltung des kulturellen Erbes - Leitfaden zur Charakterisierung von Naturstein in der Denkmalpflege
Diese Europäische Norm legt das Vorgehen zur Charakterisierung unverwitterter und verwitterter Natursteine durch geeignete Untersuchungsmethoden an Materialproben, die vom Objekt entnommen wurden, fest.
Diese Europäische Norm beinhaltet einen Leitfaden für die Auswahl von Untersuchungsmethoden zur Bestimmung der mineralogischen, physikalischen, chemischen und mechanischen Eigenschaften sowie des Gefüges von in Denkmälern und Objekten des kulturellen Erbes verwendetem Naturstein. Diese Informationen können zur Gesteinsklassifizierung und zur Bewertung des Zustands von Steinen unter Berücksichtigung der Konservierbarkeit und Erhaltungsfähigkeit sowie zum Verständnis der Zerfalls- und Verwitterungsprozesse von Naturstein dienen. Wo es möglich ist, wird auf bestehende Normen Bezug genommen. Es werden Anleitungen für abweichende Probenanforderungen und zusätzliche Untersuchungsmethoden gegeben. Die hier beschriebenen Untersuchungsmethoden sind in der Regel zerstörend; dabei sind stets zerstörungsfreie Prüfmethoden (ZfP) zerstörungsarmen Verfahren und diese wiederum zerstörenden Verfahren vorzuziehen.
Die zur Anwendung kommenden Untersuchungsmethoden für Naturstein sind abhängig vom Zweck der Untersuchung. Alle Untersuchungen und Analysen müssen im angemessenen Verhältnis zur Bedeutung und zum Zustand des untersuchten Gebäudes oder Artefakts sowie zum voraussichtlichen Umfang der Maßnahmen stehen. Diese Europäische Norm dient der Festlegung von Art, Umfang und Zielsetzung der durchzuführenden Untersuchungen.
Conservation du patrimoine culturel - Lignes directrices pour la caractérisation de la pierre naturelle utilisée dans le patrimoine culturel
La présente Norme européenne spécifie une méthode de caractérisation des pierres saines ou détériorées, impliquant l'utilisation des techniques analytiques les plus appropriées sur des échantillons prélevés sur le bien culturel.
La présente Norme européenne fournit des lignes directrices relatives à la sélection des méthodes de détermination de la texture ainsi que des propriétés minéralogiques, physiques, chimiques et mécaniques des pierres naturelles utilisées dans les monuments et les biens appartenant au patrimoine culturel. Ces informations sont utilisées pour définir la typologie des roches et évaluer l'état de conservation des pierres, ainsi que pour comprendre les processus de détérioration des pierres naturelles. Dans la mesure du possible, il est fait référence à d'autres normes existantes et des préconisations sont données lorsque différentes éprouvettes sont nécessaires et que des méthodes supplémentaires sont utilisées. Les méthodes décrites ci-après sont généralement destructives ; néanmoins, il est toujours préférable d'utiliser des méthodes non destructives plutôt que des méthodes provoquant un endommagement mineur, et il est toujours préférable d'utiliser des méthodes provoquant un endommagement mineur plutôt que des méthodes destructives.
Les méthodes utilisées pour l'analyse de la pierre peuvent varier en fonction des objectifs de l'étude. Toutes les investigations et les analyses doivent être proportionnelles à l'importance du bâtiment ou du bien qui en est l'objet, à son état et au degré probable d'intervention nécessaire. La présente Norme européenne sert à déterminer le type, l'étendue ainsi que les objectifs des examens à effectuer.
Ohranjanje kulturne dediščine - Smernice za določanje lastnosti naravnega kamna, ki se uporablja pri kulturni dediščini
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 31-Mar-2015
- Technical Committee
- CEN/TC 346 - Conservation of cultural property
- Current Stage
- 9093 - Decision to confirm - Review Enquiry
- Start Date
- 09-Dec-2021
- Completion Date
- 14-Apr-2025
Overview
EN 16515:2015 is a European standard developed by CEN that provides comprehensive guidelines for the characterization of natural stone used in cultural heritage conservation. This standard outlines a systematic methodology to analyze both sound and deteriorated stones dating from cultural heritage monuments and objects. Its primary goal is to support conservation professionals by providing essential data about the mineralogical, textural, physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of natural stone.
The standard emphasizes proportional investigation intensity based on the significance and condition of the heritage object, encouraging the use of non-destructive techniques whenever possible. It serves as a crucial resource for selecting appropriate analytical methods to evaluate stone conditions, understand deterioration processes, guide conservation planning, and inform remedial interventions.
Key Topics
Scope and Objectives
EN 16515:2015 focuses on characterizing natural stone to aid cultural heritage preservation. The standard specifies procedures for sampling, examination, and testing that balance methodological rigor with minimal impact on valuable objects.Preliminary Survey and Sampling
A thorough initial survey and condition assessment underpins stone characterization. Sampling protocols insist on precise documentation of specimen origin, size, and state (sound or deteriorated).Analytical Techniques
The methodology incorporates a range of techniques adapted to different investigative aims, including:- Visual and stereo-microscopic examination (EN 12407) to assess macroscopic features such as color, texture, and weathering.
- Petrographic analysis using thin-section microscopy to identify mineral composition, texture, weathering patterns, and microstructural damage.
- Mineralogical analysis through X-ray diffraction (XRD) for crystalline phase identification.
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) combined with elemental analysis (EDS/WDS), allowing detailed morphological and chemical investigation.
- Chemical analysis via X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), ICP, and other advanced spectroscopic methods to determine elemental composition and contamination.
- Physical property testing for density, porosity, hydric behavior, and color measurement following referenced standards (EN 1936, EN 13755, EN 15801, EN 15886).
- Mechanical testing for compressive and flexural strength, elastic moduli, and sound propagation when sufficient sample material is available.
Destructive vs. Non-Destructive Methods
The standard prioritizes non-destructive testing (NDT) where feasible, followed by minimally destructive methods, reserving fully destructive analysis as a last resort.Documentation and Reporting
A comprehensive characterization report is required, detailing sampling context, analytic results, interpretation of stone typology, deterioration status, and conservation recommendations.
Applications
EN 16515:2015 is invaluable across multiple cultural heritage fields:
Conservation Planning
Enables heritage professionals to determine stone condition accurately, guide necessary interventions, select compatible replacement materials, and monitor deterioration.Restoration and Repair
Provides a scientific basis for treatments, consolidants, and cleaning strategies, minimizing risks to the artifact.Material Research and Heritage Science
Facilitates the understanding of stone decay mechanisms, contributing to the development of improved conservation technologies.Heritage Asset Management
Supports condition surveys and long-term maintenance plans for immovable and movable stone artifacts in museums, architectural heritage, and archaeological environments.
Related Standards
EN 16515:2015 references several complementary European standards that cover specific testing and definitions in natural stone conservation:
- EN 12407 – Petrographic examination of natural stone specimens
- EN 1936 – Determination of density and porosity
- EN 13755 – Water absorption measurement
- EN 15801 – Water absorption coefficient by capillarity
- EN 15886 – Surface color measurement of natural stone
- EN 16085 – Conservation of cultural heritage terminology
- EN 16455 – Analysis of soluble salts in natural stones
- EN 16096 & EN 16095 – Condition surveys for immovable and movable cultural heritage
- Additional analytical standards for mechanical and chemical testing methods
Conclusion
EN 16515:2015 sets a harmonized framework for the scientific characterization of natural stone in cultural heritage, promoting best practices through standardized analytical methodologies. Its careful balance between invasive and non-invasive techniques ensures valuable heritage sites and objects are conserved with respect and minimal impact, enabling informed decision-making and sustainable preservation efforts. This standard is an essential tool for conservators, materials scientists, researchers, and heritage managers dedicated to safeguarding Europe’s stone cultural legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
EN 16515:2015 is a standard published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Its full title is "Conservation of Cultural Heritage - Guidelines to characterize natural stone used in cultural heritage". This standard covers: This European Standard specifies a methodology for the characterization of sound or deteriorated stones by using the most appropriate analytical techniques on samples taken from the object. This European Standard contains guidelines for the selection of methods to determine mineralogical, textural, physical, chemical and mechanical properties of natural stone used in cultural heritage monuments and objects. This information is used to define rock typology and to evaluate the stone’s condition with respect to its conservation as well as for understanding of deterioration processes of natural stone. Where possible existing standards are referred to and guidance provided where different specimens are required and additional methods used. The methods described are generally destructive, however, non-destructive (NDT) methods are always preferable to methods with a minimum of destruction and those are always preferable to destructive methods. Methods used for stone analysis can vary depending upon the objectives of the work. All investigation and analysis need be proportional to the significance of the building or artefact being investigated, its condition and the likely level of intervention. This European Standard will be used to determine the kind, extent, and objectives of the examination to be made.
This European Standard specifies a methodology for the characterization of sound or deteriorated stones by using the most appropriate analytical techniques on samples taken from the object. This European Standard contains guidelines for the selection of methods to determine mineralogical, textural, physical, chemical and mechanical properties of natural stone used in cultural heritage monuments and objects. This information is used to define rock typology and to evaluate the stone’s condition with respect to its conservation as well as for understanding of deterioration processes of natural stone. Where possible existing standards are referred to and guidance provided where different specimens are required and additional methods used. The methods described are generally destructive, however, non-destructive (NDT) methods are always preferable to methods with a minimum of destruction and those are always preferable to destructive methods. Methods used for stone analysis can vary depending upon the objectives of the work. All investigation and analysis need be proportional to the significance of the building or artefact being investigated, its condition and the likely level of intervention. This European Standard will be used to determine the kind, extent, and objectives of the examination to be made.
EN 16515:2015 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 97.195 - Items of art and handicrafts. Cultural property and heritage. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
EN 16515:2015 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.Erhaltung des kulturellen Erbes - Leitfaden zur Charakterisierung von Naturstein in der DenkmalpflegeConservation du patrimoine culturel - Guide pour la caractérisation de la pierre naturelle utilisée dans les biens culturelsConservation of Cultural Heritage - Guidelines to characterize natural stone used in cultural heritage97.195Umetniški in obrtniški izdelkiItems of art and handicraftsICS:Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z:EN 16515:2015SIST EN 16515:2015en,fr,de01-junij-2015SIST EN 16515:2015SLOVENSKI
STANDARD
EUROPEAN STANDARD NORME EUROPÉENNE EUROPÄISCHE NORM
EN 16515
April 2015 ICS 97.195 English Version
Conservation of Cultural Heritage - Guidelines to characterize natural stone used in cultural heritage
Conservation du patrimoine culturel - Lignes directrices pour la caractérisation de la pierre naturelle utilisée dans le patrimoine culturel
Erhaltung des kulturellen Erbes - Leitfaden zur Charakterisierung von Naturstein in der Denkmalpflege This European Standard was approved by CEN on 7 February 2015.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre:
Avenue Marnix 17,
B-1000 Brussels © 2015 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CEN national Members. Ref. No. EN 16515:2015 ESIST EN 16515:2015
EN 1936, open porosity EN 12372, trated load EN 13755,
EN 14146, the fundamental resonance frequency) EN 14579,
EN 14580,
EN 15801, capillarity EN 15803, (/p) EN 15886,
EN 15898, in general terms and definitions EN 16085,
EN 16322,
...
Questions, Comments and Discussion
Ask us and Technical Secretary will try to provide an answer. You can facilitate discussion about the standard in here.
Loading comments...