Low-temperature Hydraulic Binders for Restoration Needs

Abstract

The late 19th/ early 20th century was a period of active usage of low-temperature hydraulic binders, e.g., Roman cement, for the construction of buildings. Dolomitic Roman cement was characteristic of Latvia in contrast to the rest of Europe, where calcitic Roman cement was applied. The research has been conducted with the aim to synthesize a binder from local clay and dolomite compatible with historical dolomitic Roman cement. The results of chemical and XRD phase analyses have approved that Devonian as well as Quaternary clay mixed with dolomite can form a binder that closely conforms with historical ones. The obtained compositions can be considered perspective for restoration needs.