Recognition of materials and damage on historical buildings using digital image classification

Authors

  • José E. Meroño Department of Graphics Engineering and Geomatics, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
  • Alberto J. Perea Department of Applied Physics, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
  • María J. Aguilera Department of Applied Physics, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
  • Ana M. Laguna Department of Applied Physics, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17159/sajs.2015/20140001

Keywords:

digital classification, multispectral images, terrestrial laser scanner, diagnostic of cultural heritage, biocalcarenite stone

Abstract

Nowadays, techniques in digital image processing make it possible to detect damage, such as moisture or biological changes, on the surfaces of historical buildings. Digital classification techniques can be used to identify damages in construction materials in a non-destructive way. In this study, we evaluate the application of the object-oriented classification technique using photographs taken with a Fujifilm IS-Pro digital single lens reflex camera and the integration of the classified images in a three-dimensional model obtained through terrestrial laser scanning data in order to detect and locate damage affecting biocalcarenite stone employed in the construction of the Santa Marina Church (Córdoba, Spain). The Fujifilm IS-Pro camera captures spectral information in an extra-visible range, generating a wide spectral image with wavelengths ranging from ultraviolet to infrared. Techniques of object-oriented classification were applied, taking into account the shapes, textures, background information and spectral information in the image. This type of classification requires prior segmentation, defined as the search for homogeneous regions in an image. The second step is the classification process of these regions based on examples. The output data were classified according to the kind of damage that affects the biocalcarenite stone, reaching an overall classification accuracy of 92% and an excellent kappa statistic (85.7%). We have shown that multispectral classification with visible and near-infrared bands increased the degree of recognition among different damages. Post-analysis of these data integrated in a three-dimensional model allows us to obtain thematic maps with the size and position of the damage.

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Published

2015-01-29

How to Cite

Meroño, J. E., Perea, A. J., Aguilera, M. J., & Laguna, A. M. (2015). Recognition of materials and damage on historical buildings using digital image classification. South African Journal of Science, 111(1/2), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.17159/sajs.2015/20140001

Issue

Section

Research Article