HydRaúlic Structures of the Roman Mithraeum House in Augusta Emerita, Spain

Abstract

This paper deals with some of the hydRaúlic structures of Augusta Emerita (Merida, Spain), specifically those found in the Mithraeum House. In particular, we describe and characterise the hydRaúlic mortars and coatings of the viridarium water channel. The recipient of the channel was covered with two hydRaúlic mortars and a finishing coating. Hydrated lime was used as binder. Calcite grains with different morphology have been observed in the mortars studied. The siliceous aggregate was composed of quartz, mica and feldspars. Ceramic fragments, which were added to the mortar to improve its hydRaúlic properties, were composed of quartz, mica, iron oxides, anorthite and an amorphous phase; aluminium-iron silicates were used as raw materials for their manufacture. We discuss the interactions between the hydrated lime and the surface of the ceramics in the mortars. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.