IR thermography in moisture and earthquake damage detection performed in the Žiča monastery, Serbia

Abstract

This paper presents the results of the IR thermographic diagnostics of the seismic damage inflicted upon the Žiča Monastery after the earthquake on 3rd November 2010. The Žiča Monastery founded in 13th century is located in central Serbia. The moisture content in the structure was detected too. The obtained results document the current state of the buildings and, at the same time, confirm the advantages of IR thermography as a method in the diagnosis of earthquake cracks, useful for the seismic retrofit study. The obtained results enable the identification of the structure parts where more in-depth investigations need to be concentrated. The procedures and activities for curative conservation and protection of the Žiča Monastery should include the thermographic test results. The results and the conclusions obtained in this case study could be used as example for further extensive studies of historical and cultural heritage buildings.