Comparative thermal and hyphenated analysis of different mortars samples from Deva region

Thermal analysis and infrared spectroscopy are used in the study of various mortar samples clearly attributed to different historical periods in south-western Transylvania (Romania). The results obtained will clarify the character of certain samples, one Medieval period mortar sample, and a few Dacian kingdom period mortar samples. The results may contribute in the successful identification of the construction techniques used in the buildings from where the samples originate. The area under investigation is of great importance for Romanian heritage, so restorers have to find and produce mortars similar to those used in the building of our monuments. The thermoanalytic curves obtained in the case of possibly Dacian period and medieval mortars are presented in the following. Surface morphology (SEM) and elemental analysis (EDX) were investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Analysis was completed with XRF. The studies managed to solve the proposed objectives, namely demonstrated the presence of mortar and the use of limestone from the local site as a raw material to obtain the mortars analysed and listed above. Furthermore, it provided new data useful for the interpretation of building techniques used in the region and period, though the data are not sufficient to completely clarify the relevant questions.