EMU Notes in Mineralogy, Vol. 20 (2019), Chapter 4, 151–202 The Vitruvian legacy: mortars and binders before and after the Roman world Gilberto ARTIOLI, Michele SECCO and Anna ADDIS Department of Geosciences and CIRCe Centre, Universita` di Padova, Via Gradenigo 6, 35131 Padova, Italy e-mail:
[email protected],
[email protected],
[email protected] A brief history of the nature, use and technology of binders in ancient constructions and buildings is outlined, including the apparent chronological discontinuities related to technological developments. The skilled and clever use of mineral resources is at the base of the technical achievements related to architectural activities, from simple adobe to high-performance modern concrete. It is argued that among pre-industrial binders the Roman pozzolanic mortars were highly optimized materials, skillfully prepared and very durable. Their innovative use in architecture is one of the keys of the successful expansion of the Roman Empire. The role of mineralogy and mineral reactions is emphasized in terms of: (1) the preparation and manufacturing of the binding materials; (2) the hardening process and the development of the physical properties of the binder; and (3) the archaeometric reconstruction of the ancient materials. 1. Historical survey Living in a sheltered place, permanently or temporarily, is a fundamental need of humans. Nevertheless, the use of natural materials to build shelter is not exclusive to humans: termite mounds, bird nests, beaver dams, and beehives are perfect examples of efficient architectural skills on the part of animals. According to Mike Ashby ‘‘the difference lies in the competence demonstrated by man in his extraordinary ability to expand and adapt that competence and development’’ (Ashby, 2013, p.