Study and consolidation of sandstone: Temple of Karnak, Luxor, Egypt

Abstract
Sandstone samples from the Temple of Karnak, Luxor, Egypt, were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-section analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Physical, mechanical and thermal properties were determined before and after treatment with six different consolidants. The data were confirmed by SEM examination. Methyl trimethoxy silane (MTMOS) gave the best results in the consolidation of the Karnak sandstone.