Consolidation of Archaeological Paleosols with Ethyl Silicate and Local Matrix: Experience in Rumipamba, Ecuador
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20040746Keywords:
archaeological paleosols, ethyl silicate, ESTEL 1200, in situ conservation, structural consolidation, Rumipamba site, cultural heritageAbstract
This study presents the results of a consolidation process applied to archaeological paleosols using a mortar formulated with ethyl silicate (ESTEL 1200) and local paleosol in archaeological contexts affected by disintegration processes and capillary moisture. The intervention was conducted in Rumipamba Archaeological Park, Quito, Ecuador, within the framework of the heritage conservation project executed by the Metropolitan Institute of Heritage (2023–2024). The methodology included physicochemical characterization of the paleosol (grain size analysis, X-ray diffraction, pH, organic matter content), formulation and application of the mortar in a 1:1.5 ratio (silicate:paleosoil), and post-intervention evaluation at 30, 60, and 90 days through parameters of structural cohesion, chromatic integration (ΔE < 3), vapor permeability, microbial resistance, and dimensional stability. Results show structural cohesion of 85% at 90 days, visually imperceptible chromatic integration (ΔE < 3), acceptable physicochemical compatibility, and no visible colonization during the monitoring period. These preliminary findings (90‑day follow‑up) suggest the technical viability of combining paleosol and ethyl silicate in high-edaphic-moisture environments, and provide empirical evidence for the development of archaeological conservation protocols in Ecuador.
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Author Biography
Carlos Alberto Ramírez Gangotena, ARSREDEMPTOR S.A.
Conservador-restaurador del patrimonio cultural. Magíster en Finanzas. Magíster en Gestión Cultural. Consultor independiente. Exdocente universitario. Especialista en conservación arqueológica, patrimonio urbano y gestión técnica de sitios culturales.
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