Rombald’s Moor 8
Image by Kozmik_Ken
Rombald’s Moor

Calling RombaldII

Hob H
Hob Jun 20, 2005 13:06:14
Replying to tiompan

It duz.

I'm starting to suspect RombaldII isn't particularly interested in thinking about the possible detrimental effects of chalk. I could be wrong, but I seem to remember from a while back, when there was chalking on some of the SW monuments, that it turned out that whilst chalk doesn't dissolve easily in water, a weak solution of carbonic acid can be formed. This can then hasten erosion of the surface of the stone.

R rocknicker
rocknicker Jun 20, 2005 13:34:45
Replying to Hob

For me, the worst thing about the use of chalk is the fact that in order to make the mark, people think that it must be easier to break up than the surface that is being worked on.

I beg to differ.

I am sure plenty of us hereabouts have seen with our own eyes the sand found in the locality of sandstone carvings; the effect of weathering, water, ice, even wind. These surfaces can be quite delicate.

Here's an idea - take a bit of chalk and use it to mark a surface which you think is harder, for example your teeth. Now tell me it's not gritty and abrasive.

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