Characterization of Historical Mortars and Identification of their Preparation Technology: Roman Military Camp Viminacium

Abstract

Recent technological developments in the field of material science and applied chemistry have led to the fact that technological research is an inevitable procedure and the first step in the diagnosis of historical buildings state. This research required a multidisciplinary approach and brought very valuable scientific knowledge and data for conservation practice. The aim of our research paper was detailed characterization of historical mortars from the Roman period: Roman military camp Viminacium. In situ and laboratory examination of the sampled materials included: visual observations, stereo-optical and digital microscopy, spectrophotometry and colorimetry, mineralogical and petrological analyses, physical-mechanical tests, thermal characterization, mechanical and chemical separation of aggregates and binders, and characterization of samples, binders and aggregates.