Abstract
Gavdos is an island of ca. 34 km2 located to the south of Crete, Greece, with a local landscape rich in clay material of remarkable diversity in colour and quality. The limited natural and human-made resources are persistently recycled, forming the built structures of the island and determining the island’s sustainable local tradition. In the framework of this research, areas with clay soil were identified through a geological survey and testimonies of local inhabitants. The studied clay samples were characterized with mineralogical and physicochemical analyses. Two out of ten samples with a clay content higher than 50%, after low-temperature thermal treatment (600 °C and 700 °C), functioned as pozzolanic additives enhancing the performance in resistance to salt decay and plasticity of lime mortars. Seven raw clay samples were used as pigments in lime-based colours and their performance and durability, as assessed with the appropriate laboratory analyses, revealed the existence of stable mineral pigments under UV and visible light irradiation. There is great potential in the exploitation of local raw material from the island of Gavdos for the restoration of the traditional building stock on the island in terms of resource efficiency, environmental impact and preservation of the local identity.
Highlights
Gavdos island, located 38.89 km from the south coast of Crete, in the Libyan Sea, is a place of outstanding natural beauty
Metakaolin/lime mortars are highly recommended as restoration mortars on historic masonries because of their chemical and physico-mechanical compatibility with the existing substrate [6]
Natural clays can be used as pozzolanic materials when thermally activated
Summary
Gavdos island, located 38.89 km from the south coast of Crete, in the Libyan Sea, is a place of outstanding natural beauty. A typical characteristic of this remote location throughout the years has been the need for constant recycling of the limited natural and human-made resources [1]. The traditional architecture of the 20th century found on the island is an example of this practice with austere building shapes and the use of local materials. Wood, juniper trunks and earth are the main construction materials used on the island. For the sustainable development of the island and the preservation of its natural beauty, the exploitation of its local resources and their use for the restoration of the traditional buildings is of strategic importance
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call