Development and characterization of lime-based stucco for modern construction and restoration applications based on ancient stuccoes from the “El Cerrito” pyramid, Querétaro, Mexico

Researchers have successfully developed and characterized a new lime-based stucco formulation inspired by ancient techniques used in the 'El Cerrito' pyramid, Querétaro, Mexico. The study revealed that these historic stuccoes contain calcite, labradorite, quartz, volcanic lithics, and natural fibers, providing a unique chemical fingerprint. By analyzing the physical-chemical properties of two samples using SEM, EDS, ICP, and X-ray diffraction, the team replicated the ancient material's composition, incorporating calcium hydroxide, pozzolan (alunite-kaolinite), fine quartz sand, volcanic lithics, and nopal pad fibers. The new stucco demonstrates a pozzolanic effect, reacting with atmospheric CO2 to form calcite, making it suitable for both modern construction and archaeological restoration. A step-by-step methodology for its preparation and application was also documented.

Rodriguez-Juarez, M. E., Perez-Diaz, E., Lopez-Dominguez, G. I., Picazo, V. L., Valencia-Cruz, D., Millan-Malo, B. M., & Rodriguez-Garcia, M. E. (2022). Development and characterization of lime-based stucco for modern construction and restoration applications based on ancient stuccoes from the “El Cerrito” pyramid, Querétaro, Mexico. Case Studies in Construction Materials, 16, e00875. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cscm.2022.e00875