Archaeometric study of the historic terrazzo pavement of Prince Mohamed Ali Museum, Cairo, Egypt

A groundbreaking archaeometric study of the historic terrazzo pavement at Prince Mohamed Ali Museum, Cairo, Egypt, reveals the intricate composition and craftsmanship behind one of the site's notable architectural features. The research identified Portland cement as a key component in all three layers of the terrazzo, evidenced by the detection of minerals such as Hatrurite, Alite, Anorthite, Albite, and Aragonite through XRPD and SEM.EDX analyses. Additionally, the study uncovered a diverse array of pigments—including Goethite, Greenalite, Hematite, Azurite, and Magnetite—in the topping layer, along with basalt, marble, and sea shells used for decorative chips. Brass alloy divider strips were also confirmed. The findings provide valuable insights into the materials and techniques employed in 19th-century Egyptian terrazzo construction, contributing to the preservation and understanding of Historic Cairo's cultural heritage.

Khedr, M. S. A., Ali, M. F., Kamel, A. M. A., & El-Ghanam, M. A. A. (2020). Archaeometric study of the historic terrazzo pavement of Prince Mohamed Ali Museum, Cairo, Egypt. Pollack Periodica, 15(1), 221–232. https://doi.org/10.1556/606.2020.15.1.21