Characterization of Classical Construction Materials used in Ethiopian Architecture for the Restoration of their Historic and Artistic Heritage

ABSTRACT

Many architectural constructions with heritage value around Lake Tana (Ethiopia) were erected by the Jesuits in the 17th century, who used techniques and materials from the classical Roman tradition. The study of its state of conservation and their building materials (masonry concrete, masonry mortar, painted plaster, masonry bricks, and masonry stone) has revealed the great constructive technique and the high quality of binders used by them. Various samples from each monument were taken and subjected to chemical analysis (FRX), X-ray diffraction tests, polarized light optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, ultrasounds, and colorimetry tests. The composition results provided important information about the provenance of the materials used by the Jesuits. Their air lime binders were also of particular interest due to the addition of locally sourced diatomite earths to create a product with high mechanical resistance and durability. The techniques introduced by the Jesuits can be used today in the sustainable, economical restoration of heritage in Ethiopia and adjacent regions.

KEYWORDS:

• Bricks
• diatomite earths
• Ethiopia
• Jesuit architectural heritage
• lime binders
• masonry stone
• restoration materials

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful to Mrs. Marquezthe responsible for the Scanning Electron Microscope at the Scientific Instrumentation Centre at the University of Granada (Pharmacy Faculty), for carrying out the electron microscope analysis.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the REMINE Programme for Research and Innovation Horizon 2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions and Project MAT2016-75889-R of the National Plan for Scientific Research, Development and Technological Innovation (Ministry of Science and Technology) and was carried out under the auspices of Research Groups RNM 0179 and HUM 629 of the Junta de Andalucía.