Abstract
The paper is focused on analyses of dark copper patina defects that were formed on one sheet under the same conditions. Roofs of ten historical buildings were studied by image analysis and samples of two roofs were subjected to more detailed destructive analysis. These samples were studied by means of scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy. Both types of patina are composed of brochantite. Green patinas consisted of a pure brochantite and they had a fl at and compact surface. Conversely, black patina contained a high degree of impurities (ammonia cations, nitrates, silicates) and the surface was rough. The proportion of dark patina was higher in south and east facing surfaces, where washing by rainfall is more difficult.