Ancient Roman Mortars from Anfiteatro Flavio (Pozzuoli, Southern Italy): A Mineralogical, Petrographic and Chemical Study

This research is based on the characterization of ancient mortars from Anfiteatro Flavio (Pozzuoli) dating back to 1st and 2nd century CE through a multi-analytical approach involving macroscopic, mineralogical, petrographic, chemical investigations. The goal that has been set deepen knowledge about mortar mix design, provenance used raw materials, secondary minerogenetic processes have occurred within Roman mortars. Results show that: (i) materials for preparation local provenance, i.e., Phlegraean Fields area; (ii) can be considered as hydraulic; (iii) calcite presence could due non-complete calcination process, an improper slaking or exposition subaerial environment; (iv) gypsum sulfation process; (v) halite marine aerosol exposition. achieved information testifies that, at least two centuries, builders identified optimal their buildings, but also contributes understanding technical skills represents important first step planning future restoration operations.