ENHANCING TEPETATE RENDERS WITH ENDEMIC PLANT MUCILAGE AND SAFE ADDITIVES: A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION
Abstract
This study investigates the transformation of tepetate renders through the addition of heteropolysaccharides and industrial byproducts for use in architectural restoration, with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Tepetate, a volcanic soil common in Mexico, has limitations as a plaster material due to its poor cohesiveness and durability. We hypothesized that the addition of mucilage from endemic plants (Opuntia aciculata, Agave lechuguilla, and Cyrtopodium macrobulbon) and industrial byproducts (glycerol) could improve tepetate properties for restoration applications while promoting ecological conservation and resource efficiency. We conducted experiments using various concentrations (0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%) of these additives and subjected samples to cohesiveness, aging, compression strength, and water absorption tests. Results showed significant improvements in tepetate properties, with some variations depending on the additive type and concentration. Notably, agave mucilage at 0.5% concentration achieved the highest compressive strength (42.09 kg/cm²), while glycerol at 1.5% demonstrated superior water resistance. All additive mixtures reduced water requirements by at least 40% compared to the control sample, with some achieving up to 62.5 % reduction. This water-saving aspect, combined with the use of natural and waste materials, underscores the ecological benefits of the proposed approach. The addition of these natural and industrial additives can effectively enhance tepetate performance as a rendering material, offering a sustainable solution for architectural conservation. These findings contribute to the development of improved, environmentally friendly materials for the restoration of cultural heritage buildings, aligning with principles of resource conservation and circular economy practices in the field of restoration.
Keywords
Tepetate renders, Heteropolysaccharides, Sustainable restoration, Endemic plants, Construction materials
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