The authentic restoration of a historic monument is a delicate dialogue between contemporary technology and the integrity of the old material.

Recently, we had the privilege of coordinating a technical visit for a group of international conservation experts at the Brâncovenesc Palace restoration site. This experience highlighted innovative, yet discreet, solutions for one of the greatest challenges: consolidating load-bearing structures without altering the historic aesthetic.

Injection with Geopolymers

A key technique observed was the use of geopolymers to restore the bonds in the brick masonry. Unlike ordinary Portland cement, these binders have an adjusted alkalinity that does not attack the old brick and have minimal shrinkage, preventing new cracks. The process, monitored with thermal cameras, ensures uniform penetration.

FRP (Fiber Reinforced Polymer) Reinforcements

For wooden beams rotted at the ends, the restoration team opted for FRP reinforcements. Thin strips of carbon or glass fiber are glued to the lower faces of the beams, restoring the load-bearing capacity without removing the degraded historic material or adding visible volume. The solution is reversible, a cardinal principle in modern conservation.

The visit emphasized the importance of exhaustive documentation before any intervention. 3D scanning of the entire structure provided a precise digital map of deformations and cracks, becoming the primary tool for diagnosis and planning.