Petrophysical Characterisation and Suitability of Serpentinites from the Monteferrato Area (Tuscany, Italy) for Architectural Restoration

This study investigates the mineralogical and physical properties of serpentinite from the Monteferrato area (Tuscany, Italy) to evaluate its potential use in Tuscany architectural restoration. The research addresses the need to identify replacement materials compatible with historic stones while preserving their original features. Representative specimens from the Bagnolo quarry were analysed through physical testing and a wide range of min-eralogical and geochemical techniques, including polarised light microscopy, X-ray dif-fraction, electron probe micro-analysis, whole-rock chemistry, and fibre quantification. The results show a mineralogical composition dominated by serpentine-group minerals and magnetite, with physical properties generally consistent across samples. Measured capillary water absorption ranges from 3.27 to 5.27 g/m2·s0.5, open porosity from 5.25% to 8.93%, apparent densities range from 2.49 to 2.56 g/cm3, and imbibition coefficient from 2.16% to 3.71%. Comparative analysis with serpentinite from historic sources (Figline di Prato quarry, Tuscany) and from monuments (Baptistery of San Giovanni, Florence) demonstrates close compositional and textural affinities, supporting the suitability of the rock from the studied quarry for restoration purposes in Tuscany monuments. However, chrysotile concentrations up to 14,153 mg/kg, exceeding Italian regulatory thresholds, represent a critical limitation. This not only requires the implementation of strict safety measures but also raises serious concerns regarding the practical feasibility of using this stone in conservation projects. More broadly, the presence of asbestiform minerals in ser-pentinites highlights a significant and often underestimated health risk associated with their extraction, processing, and use. Despite its importance, detailed fibre count data are rarely published or made publicly accessible, hindering both transparent risk assessment and informed decision-making. By integrating petrographic, mineralogical, and physical–me-chanical characterisation with fibre quantification, this study not only assesses the technical suitability of Monteferrato serpentinites for restoration of Tuscan monuments but also con-tributes to a more responsible and evidence-based approach to their use, emphasising the ur-gent need for transparency and health protection in conservation practices.