Geognostic investigation, deterioration evolution, GPR scan

The present geognostic investigation of the Mekaad Radwan monument is a case study which can be extrapolated for use on similar buildings in Egypt. Like the other similar Ottoman buildings, the study monument has suffered severe damages and deterioration with the progression of time, resulting from multiple geo-environmental hazards, especially earthquakes. The assessment of the current condition of the study monument was based on the interpretation and integration of information from historical survey, direct observation and laboratory investigation of collected building material samples. For a sound approach in both phases of diagnosis and restoration, the present study researched the action and phenomena that have caused the decadence of the monument, and trace, accordingly, its development. The investigation puts emphasis on the following methods of study: 1-Field description of the Mekaad Radwan site, and geognostic measurements of its damaged zones. 2-Petrographic and mineralogical investigation of the building blocks, mortar and plaster samples, using polarizing microscopy and XRD techniques. 3-Mechanical and clay mineralogical studies of the foundation soil.