Materials Structure and Technology in Archaeology and Architecture

Exploration of three classes of materials and composites, and relationships that exist between structural elements of materials and their properties: vitreous materials, building material binders, and pigments and colorants. Through study of ancient materials and technology in archaeology and architecture, exploration of relationships among processing, structure, properties, and performance for: vitreous materials—ceramics, frits, and glass; building material binders—aerial lime-based mortars, natural and artificial hydraulic lime/cements and concretes; and pigments and colorants (natural and synthetic organic, inorganic, and organic/inorganic hybrids). Through reverse engineering processing, exploration of ancient engineering materials (their micro/nano structure and physical, chemical, and mechanical properties), and their durability and sustainability as time-proven examples of technology innovation and/or invention.

Letter grading.