Contribution to Active Conservation: Characterization of Neolithic Period Mud Bricks Remains of the Archaeological Site of Çatalhöyük-Turkey

A groundbreaking study reveals that Neolithic inhabitants of Çatalhöyük used local materials and innovative techniques to create durable mud bricks, with variations in composition across different layers and buildings. The research, conducted during the 2014 excavation season, employed advanced archaeometric techniques such as XRD, SEM-EDX, and petrographic analysis to characterize six mud brick samples from the Eastern mound (C14 cal. 7100-5950 BC). Key findings include the identification of clay types (muscovite, kaolinite), organic additives (straw), and binders like gypsum and slacked lime, introduced progressively over time to enhance durability. The study also demonstrates that raw materials were sourced locally, with intentional modifications in binder composition across layers (VIA-IX) and buildings to improve brick robustness. These insights provide a critical reference for conserving Çatalhöyük's earthen structures while offering new understanding of Neolithic construction practices.

Noei, S. (2022). CONTRIBUTION TO ACTIVE CONSERVATION: CHARACTERIZATION OF NEOLITHIC PERIOD MUD BRICKS REMAINS OF THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF ÇATALHÖYÜK-TURKEY. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.7072711