Chemical analysis of Gothic mortar from a bridge pier in Roudnice nad Labem (Czech Republic)

In this paper, a Gothic mortar originating from the remains of a bridge pier in Roudnice nad Labem (Czech Republic) was analyzed. The inorganic composition of the mortar showing special mechanical properties was studied using polarizing light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, and X-ray diffraction, while the protein content was analyzed by peptide mass mapping using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization—time of flight mass spectrometry and nanoliquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. Two types of inorganic binders having a composition similar to mineral wollastonite and hydraulic lime and milk protein additive were detected. We believe that organic and inorganic binders added together to the mortar increase its hardness and firmness in the aquatic environment.