Isotopic Fractionation of Carbon During CO2 Absorption by Mortar

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Abstract
Recent studies comparing dates from the carbon content of mortars with dendrochronologic dates for the same material have shown considerable inconsistencies related to mortar type (Van Strydonck et al, 1985). Even after the best possible removal of “dead” calcite, some mortars are unsuitable for dating. We describe here our experimental study of carbon isotope fractionation during the manufacture and hardening of mortars. Preliminary experiments established overall uptake of CO2 from the air. We then measured isotopic ratios in identical mortars at different hardening times.