Paisley's uni boffins uncover technique to protect historic buildings

A research team led by a Paisley lecturer has shown how thermal imaging technology could be used to protect Scotland’s heritage by detecting hidden moisture damage.

- TAYLOR MURRAY

Dr Michael Bowry, a lecturer in physics at the University of the West of Scotland’s (UWS) Paisley campus, has been part of a pioneering community-led study at Ardrossan Castle in North Ayrshire.

Working with local volunteers from Ardrossan Castle Heritage Society (ACHS), the project used a £3,000 thermal camera and free software to detect damp areas inside the stone walls of the northeast tower, which are invisible to the naked eye.

Moisture, especially if it remains undetected, is one of the biggest threats to historic buildings. It can enter in several ways; by being drawn up from the ground, blown in by rain or forming from condensation.

As well as encouraging the growth of algae and mould, water can act as a solvent for the transmission of salts within the fabric of a building which may lead to destructive freezing and thawing cycles.