Algarve vernacular architecture facade ornaments: chemical and mineralogical characterization

Author(s): Marta Santo, António Santos Silva, Rosário Veiga
Paper category: Proceedings
Book title: Proceedings of the 5th Historic Mortars Conference
Editor(s): José Ignacio Álvarez, José María Fernández, Íñigo Navarro, Adrián Durán, Rafael Sirera
ISBN: 978-2-35158-221-3
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-222-0
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2019
Pages: 529-543
Total Pages: 15
Language : English

Abstract: In Algarve, southern region of Portugal, vernacular architecture presents extensive facade
decoration, characterized by the presence of coloured relief ornaments. These ornaments
are mentioned in the literature as mainly made with air lime mortars and modelled through
three modelling techniques, namely, in situ carving, cast moulding and run out moulding.
This study aims to assess whether the different types of modelling techniques required
specific mortars compositions, namely by, the use of specific binders, aggregate types and
binder-aggregate ratios. For this purpose 27 samples were collected from four buildings
from different historical periods, mid-18th century, early-20th century and mid-20th century,
comprising different moulding techniques and iconographies. Results showed that all
assessed samples were designed with air lime binder and siliceous aggregates, regardless
from building date or modelling technique. Older mortars present relatively higher binder to
aggregate ratios. The more recent samples from 20th century showed traces of calcium
aluminium silicates, indicating probable addition of hydraulic binders, eventually related
with the need of higher mechanical strength for the viability of cast moulding technique,
predominant at the time.
Keywords: Algarve, vernacular architecture, facade ornaments, moulding techniques,
mortars composition

Online publication : 2019
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00