Preparation and characterisation of ancient-like masonry mortars

Abstract

The characterisation of mortars prepared according to ancient methods from the colonial period in Mexico is reported. The materials were prepared by mixing limestone, sand, water and an additive (bovine blood, milk or cactus sap) and the compression strength, flexural strength and tensile strength were measured according to ASTM standards and at different aging stages. The technology developed allows, on the one hand, counting with a reliable methodology for restoring ancient buildings, similar to the originally employed, and, on the other to offer a low cost technique for construction by using agricultural by-products.