Abstract
Earth-built structures were historically very common in Scotland. As
building techniques have changed, the number of standing earth
buildings has reduced. Now the few earth buildings that remain are
significant testaments to a lost craft tradition. Understanding the
composition of earthen materials used in construction enables better
decision making in conservation. Here, we utilise near infrared (NIR)
spectroscopy as a portable, non-destructive tool to assess the mixed
inorganic and organic matrix from earth-built structures and experimental
comparators. NIR is shown to be able to distinguish clearly
between clay-rich blocks of different origin. Admixtures of aggregates
such as topsoil, gravel and straw have a significant impact on
the spectral data collected. This technique has the potential to better
inform repairs and conservation works on historic earth-built
buildings.
building techniques have changed, the number of standing earth
buildings has reduced. Now the few earth buildings that remain are
significant testaments to a lost craft tradition. Understanding the
composition of earthen materials used in construction enables better
decision making in conservation. Here, we utilise near infrared (NIR)
spectroscopy as a portable, non-destructive tool to assess the mixed
inorganic and organic matrix from earth-built structures and experimental
comparators. NIR is shown to be able to distinguish clearly
between clay-rich blocks of different origin. Admixtures of aggregates
such as topsoil, gravel and straw have a significant impact on
the spectral data collected. This technique has the potential to better
inform repairs and conservation works on historic earth-built
buildings.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 4574-4579 |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| Journal | Analytical Methods |
| Volume | 5 |
| Early online date | 11 Jul 2013 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Aug 2013 |