Author

L. BINDA and G. BARONIO
Polytechnic of Milan

Abstract

The adhesion between binder and aggregate and the resulting mortar and brick in ancient mortars is not fully understood. Mortars and plasters made with hydra ted lime and powdered bricks (“cocciopesto” mortars) taken from the Church of S. Lorenzo in Milan, were studied.
Microscopic observation of the brick/binder interface shows chemical reaction phenomena dependent on the physical and chemical properties of the bricks and mortars. “Bond layers” were detected which eliminate discontinuities at the interface and seem to ensure a better bond strength.