Analysis by X-ray difraction and light microscopy of rammed earth walls (Granada, Spain)

Abstract

The rammed earth walls, in different varieties, is the constructive form utilized to build Granada city walls. To know the mineralogic composition of any material used in construction is very important, because it determines extensively its resistance and durability. This have been the first aim of this work; the quarry of extraction of the material has been identificated too. The used of the X-Ray Diffraction and optical Microscopy have allowed to know the initial composition and to make the existence of secondary minerals clear. On the other hand, the optical microscopy is a technique with high resolution for the study of mortars of lime. As a conclusion, with the mineralogic identification it is possible to know: resistance of the material to external chemical and phisical agents and manufacture tecnique.