Characterization of Historic Bricks and Binder at Vat Phou World Heritage Site in Lao PDR and Selection of Compatible Replacement Units for Restoration

A groundbreaking study at Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lao PDR, reveals that natural wood resin, not lime, was used as the binder in historic brick masonry. This challenges traditional assumptions about mortar composition in Southeast Asia and provides empirical evidence for an alternative binding method. The research employed micro-analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, to characterize both the bricks and their binder. Additionally, physicomechanical tests ensured compatibility between historic and newly manufactured replacement bricks, guiding restoration practices. These findings offer critical insights for preserving similar sites across the Mekong River Basin region.

Manohar, S., Shukla, S., Menon, A., & Santhanam, M. (2020). Characterization of Historic Bricks and Binder at Vat Phou World Heritage Site in Lao PDR and Selection of Compatible Replacement Units for Restoration. Current Science, 119(8), 1300. https://doi.org/10.18520/cs/v119/i8/1300-1307