Characterization of Late Prehistoric plasters and mortars from Erimi - Laonin tou Porakou (Limassol, Cyprus)

Several plasters and mortars from the Middle Bronze Age site of Erimi – Laonin tou Porakou (Cyprus) were analysed in order to perform a technological characterization. Morphological (SEM), elemental (EDX), mineralogical (XRPD), petrographic (polarized OM, SEM–EDX), thermal (TGA) and spectroscopic (FT–IR) techniques were applied. Plasters and mortars were identified as pyrotechnological lime products, obtained using local raw materials and containing a moderate amount of spathic calcite fragments. The use of organic fibres was ascertained and a seminal use of a crumbled ceramic as additive was evidenced.