Mortars from historical buildings in Switzerland: petrographic examination

Abstract eng:
Twelve samples of mortars from historical buildings dating between the 1st century B.C. and the 20th century A.D., located along the Swiss Alpine Arch, have been examined with optical and fluorescence microscopy to ascertain some common features possibly responsible of their good behaviours. The majority of the samples are lime-based mortars, though a few samples show the characteristic features of magnesium lime mixed with siliceous and carbonatic sands; the composition reflects the local availability of raw materials. The microstructure does not show defects or particular features that could significantly influence the behaviour of the mortars. The results confirm that the high durability of the analyzed samples probably is not dependant on the composition or proportions of the mixes but must be due to other influencing factors, such as the preparation of the substrate, waiting the appropriate amount of time between the application of the different layers, and the careful preparation, processing and application of the binder and mixes.

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