Duygu Ergenç

In this study, Roman mortars of the historical city Nysa (4th c. BC–7th c. AD)
that are taken from different monumental structures were characterized by means of
different analytical techniques. The texture, micro-structure and mineralogical, chemical
features of the mortars were studied by polarized optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction,
thermogravimetric analysis - differential scanning calorimetry, Raman Spectroscopy and X-Ray
Fluorescence analyses. The results of the analyses reveal that basically all samples are
composed of porous calcitic lime binders and angular to semi-angular quartz and feldspar
aggregates with rock fragments like marble, quartzite, schist and slate that reflect the
regional geology, and also some of the mortars include ceramic fragments.