Experimental analysis of lime putty and pozzolan-based mortar for interventions in archaeological sites

Abstract The study aims at defining and characterizing a specific restoration mortar for archaeological masonry structures made with traditional materials to assess the suitability of mixture compared other mortars; such goal is crucial develop define interventions in sites. was defined ensure compatibility ancient following frequently adopted recommendations site, specifically by using: (1) raw as similar possible ones; (2) mix design. Therefore, commercial lime putty CL 90-S type natural Phlegrean pozzolan, i.e. volcanoclastic material collected from volcanic area located West Naples Italy. precious limitedly available pozzolan used experiments resulted an exclusive which very ones. has binder aggregate ratio 1:3 volume, according techniques typically encountered Roman city Pompeii Vesuvius surrounding area. evolution flexural compressive strength, elastic modulus, bulk density, open porosity ultrasonic pulse velocity been monitored up 200 days, based on standard procedures. Moreover, hardening process Differential Thermal Analysis 90 through evaluation phase transitions associated dehydroxylation decarboxylation, considering different depths external surface mortar. achieved mechanical properties were compatible those lime-based mixtures repair structures. found be well-suited mitigate cracking, showing low between its stiffness load capacity typologies mortars restoration. Ultrasonic test proved reasonable complementary method monitor hardened Carbonation still progressing days. data presented provide useful reliable information approach complex archeological