Impact of Rock Matrix Seepage on Hollowing and Cracking of Surface Restoration Layer in the Leshan Giant Buddha: Fid-Bau Portal

Impact of Rock Matrix Seepage on Hollowing and Cracking of Surface Restoration Layer in the Leshan Giant Buddha

Sun, Bo / Peng, Ningbo / Fan, Yuanyuan / Zhang, Huyuan / Wang, Fengrui

The degradation of stone cultural heritage due to weathering has posed significant challenges in cultural relics preservation. This study focuses on the role of seepage in rock weathering and its effects on the interface between the rock matrix and the restoration layer of stone cultural relics. Specifically, a hydraulic-mechanical coupling model was developed for the rock-restoration layer interface of the Leshan Giant Buddha. The stress distribution and seepage characteristics in the rock matrix were analyzed, revealing the influence of seepage on interface stress, cracking, and hollowing of the restoration layer. The following conclusions are obtained through the research:Seepage at the interface between the rock matrix and the restoration layer leads to cracking and hollowing, creating obstacles in the protection of cultural relics; shear stress at the interface between the rock matrix and the restoration layer is the main cause of cracking in the repaired layer; uneven distribution of bonding strength between the repaired layer and the bedrock results in differential cracking and eventually forms a bulge; the properties and lithology of the rock matrix significantly affect interface deformation during seepage, exerting a direct impact on the cracking of the repaired layer. These findings have important practical implications for the preventive protection of the Leshan Giant Buddha and other stone cultural heritage sites. By understanding the mechanisms of seepage-induced cracking, conservation efforts can be enhanced, leading to more effective preservation of these significant cultural symbols.