Geochemical and isotopic composition of historical mortar and plaster in Styria (Austria)

The present study is focused on dated and well-characterized carbonate mortar and plaster of roman, medieval, and early modern (pre-industrial) times in Styria (Austria). The analyzed Sr/Ca and 87Sr/86Sr ratios reflect the composition of the natural deposits used for manufacturing of lime mortar. The range and systematic correlation of 13C/12C and 18O/16O data reflect isotopic fractionation effects upon setting of the cement and during the history of the individual cement. The results show that analyses of carbon and oxygen isotopic compositions permit to follow the historic cementation process and to detect potential variations of the composition of the atmospheric CO2 and liquid (H2O).