Characterization of materials used in the Quart Towers (Valencia, Spain) prior to restoration

Abstract

[EN] Quart Towers are one of the remaining gates in the medieval wall of the city of Valencia (Spain). They were built in the 15th century and have recently been cleaned and consolidated. Prior to this work, a multidisciplinary team conducted a physicochemical study to diagnose the state and composition of different materials. Stone, mortar, patinas, salts etc., have been analyzed as well as their state of deterioration Remains of previous interventions have been found in mortars of restitution and application of consolidants that have caused damaging salts. The methodology used is optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy with X-ray microanalysis. The results have been used together with documentary data to identify the components of the materials in order to, if possible, compatibility the material in the damaged areas and to determine the most appropriate techniques and procedures for applying cleaning systems, enabling consolidation and protection of the building without altering the unique characteristics of the original building typology.