KD2 determines thermal properties of the Takamatsuzuka tumulus and surrounding soil
Takamatsuzuka tumulus is located in the Asuka village, just south of Nara, Japan. This area is a wonderful combination of urban living and ancient temples and tombs. Takamatsuzuka was named for the tall pine tree that sits at the top of the mound. Located within the tomb are some of the most beautiful and famous Japanese wall paintings. Discovered in 1972, the paintings are believed to have been made at the end of the seventh and beginning of the eighth centuries.
Though it is unknown who is actually buried in the tomb, the murals are worthy of a nobleman. They depict a small-scale universe, including star constellations, the sun, the moon, and guardian gods, for the deceased.
This national treasure became threatened in 2001 with the appearance of fungi growing on the interior lime plaster walls. Efforts began immediately to contain and stop the fungi growth within the tumulus. High humidity and high water content of the lime plaster walls were believed to be a contributor of the fungi growth. Scientists used Decagon's KD2 to determine the thermal properties of the tumulus and surrounding soil. As a result, it was determined that the best short-term solution would be to cool the entire mound to stop the fungi growth.
The monstrous cooling system was installed over the mound, thus cooling it to a temperature where the fungi would be dormant. The Agency of Cultural Affairs is investigating ways to preserve these beautiful murals for future generations.
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