The Conference, is based in four main themes, related with the central aims of 4 research projects, financed by Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT), that are being developed by the organization institutions of this event:
I. Characterization of historical mortars: chemical, mineralogical, micro-structural, physical and mechanical characterization of historical mortars, including techniques and methodologies of testing and case studies.
II. Decay and diagnosis of historic masonry structures: damage, decay mechanisms, diagnosis, case studies.
III. History, protection and conservation of historical renders and plasters: history of the technology, protection of the historical heritage, consolidation materials and techniques, restoration and conservation of architectural heritage, case studies.
IV. Design of compatible repair mortars: compatible materials and techniques for conservation and repair, compatibility requirements, testing methods, case studies.