Malte, calcestruzzi e intonaci dipinti in Aquileia romana. Un approccio archeometrico nello studio di miscele leganti impiegate nell'edilizia antica

In the present PhD thesis are reported the results of an extensive research focused on the investigation of characteristics and properties of mortar-based materials employed in Aquileia (Friuli Venezia Giulia, Northern Italy) from Roman to Early Medieval Age (II century BC VI century AD). More than 270 samples have been collected from structures and buildings spread all over of the town. The sampling activities were particularly intensive in sites currently involved in annual excavation activities, leaded by the Universities of Padova, Venice Ca' Foscari, Verona and Udine. This dataset was implemented with another series of samples collected from wall-painting fragments conserved in the deposits of the Archaeological Museum of Aquileia and in laboratories of the Universities. Material characterization was achieved throughout a multi-analytical approach comprising optical microscopy (OM), X-Ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive microanalysis (SEM-EDS). In particular situations, other analytical techniques have been also employed (XRF; Raman spectroscopy). Analytical data have been strictly crosschecked in relation with the chronology and function of the structure and decorations mortars have been collected from. The results obtained provide intriguing outcomes: it has been observed a high specialization of mixing recipes in relation to the function of mortars and concretes; also chronology of production appears to have an important role in the composition of mortar-based compounds. Such an extensive sampling has provided valuable insights for the deciphering of the relations among crafts and artisans in ancient construction and decorative activities in the site of Aquileia. The conclusions obtained result extremely innovative in comparison with past studies.