Characteristics of Byzantine-period lime mortars and plasters from the Anaia Church (Kadikalesi)

Abstract

In this study, Byzantine- period lime mortars and plasters used in the Anaia Church in Ku degrees adasy- Aydyn were examined in order to determine their characteristics and investigate the continuity of the lime mortar technology through centuries in the Anaia Church. The results will also contribute to future conservation studies at the site. Basic physical properties, raw-material compositions and hydraulic properties of lime mortars and plasters; mineralogical and chemical compositions, microstructural properties of binders, aggregates and limes; and pozzolanic activities of aggregates were determined using RILEM test methods, XRD, SEM-EDS and TGA. Mortar samples were comprised of natural aggregates whereas lime plasters were made of brick aggregates. Analyses revealed that plasters were slightly less dense and more porous than mortars due to the porous structure of the brick aggregates. All mortars and plasters were hydraulic due to the use of highly reactive pozzolanic aggregates. The basic physical properties, raw-material compositions, mineralogical and chemical compositions of mortars and plasters were found to be similar throughout the construction periods spread over different centuries. These similarities revealed the conscious knowledge of the lime mortar technology during the Byzantine period in Western Anatolia.