Detailed scientific research applied to the field of Hygiene cultural heritage is rarely practiced in the Philippines.This study intends to present a systematic approach to the proper chemical characterization of an old lime mortar sample from a Spanish-era church ruin.The analytical techniques employed were: atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), infrared spectroscopy (IR), scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).Results showed that the binder is mostly calcitic, non-dolomitic and air-hardening lime.A slight hydraulic character was observed due to possible clay impurities.
Besides the typical sand mixture in mortars, crushed shell fragments were used as aggregates.Possible Non-Woven Discs organic compounds were also identified.The data obtained from this study is very important in understanding traditional building techniques that can enhance heritage conservation work in the Philippines.