Characterisation of Innovative Mortar Formulations for the Restoration of Roman Mosaics

This contribution is focused on the study of the workability and mechanical properties of innovative mortars previously developed for preservation of ancient mosaics. The new formulations are based on the study of the Vitruvian recipe for Roman mortars, respecting the compatibility criteria with the original material. Different additives in different concentrations have been added to the previous formulations with the aim of studying their role in improving the durability, physicochemical, and rheological properties of the consolidating formulations. Preliminary slump tests were carried out to evaluate the effect of the additives on the workability of designed lime-based mortars. The achieved results highlighted the benefits of the use of plant-derived gel and inorganic nanoparticles in mortar mixtures, when added in suitable concentration. Considering these results, the best mortars formulations have been selected to examine in depth their mechanical properties.