Ancient XVI century mortar from the Dominican Republic: Its characteristics, microstructure and additives

Abstract Characterization of a mortar from the XVI century found in the colonial district of Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic) led to discovery of its composition (lime mortar), the binder/aggregate ratio (1:4), identification of the aggregates (quartz and calcite) and its additives (fats). Based on this study and together with a microstructural SEM/EDX analysis of the mortar in which CSH type crystals were also detected, hypotheses can be established for the type of manufacture and raw materials used and also opinions related to its durability. X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, differential thermal analysis, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with EDX have been the main techniques employed.