Characterization of mortars from the medieval Abbey of Cerrate (southern Italy). (April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Conte, Aida Maria; Corda, Laura; Esposito, Daniela; Giorgi, Elisabetta
• Is Part Of: Journal of archaeological science. Volume 12(2017)
• Page Start: 463
• Page End: 479
• Publication Date: 2017-04
• Subjects: Mortars -- Historic building -- Petrographic microscopy -- SEM-EDS, XRF, XRD -- Technical construction -- Conservation -- Salento region (South Italy); Archaeology -- Periodicals; Archaeology -- Research -- Periodicals; 930.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jasrep.2017.02.017
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-409X

Abstract

Abstract: Mortars from the walls of S. Maria di Cerrate Abbey (South Italy) ranging in age from the 12th to the 20th century, were studied using a multidisciplinary approach designed to produce a guideline of investigation that can be applied to the knowledge and preservation of archaeological sites. The analyses highlighted the differences between medieval and post-medieval mortars; the former showed a dominantly carbonate aggregate, the latter a mostly siliciclastic aggregate. Among these, mortars dated from the XVI–XVII centuries display a mixed siliciclastic-carbonate binder whereas mortars from the XIX–XX centuries exhibit a predominantly carbonate binder with the Al-silicates mostly gathered as lumps. Highlights: Mortars from S. Maria di Cerrate complex (Salento, Italy) From the 12th to the 20th century masonry Multi-disciplinary study Historical-technical and mineralogical-petrographical characterization Comparison and distinction between mortars of different age