Exploring plastering techniques in ancient Chinese royal architecture at Huilong temple using multi-analytical methods

As a World Cultural Heritage site, researching the building materials of the Wudang Mountain is crucial for conservation and restoration. This study applied multi-analytical approaches to examine the plastering of the Huilong Taoist Temple, revealing significant differences in raw materials and techniques between two layers wall plastering. The surface layer uses magnesium lime, lateritic soil, ocher, and paper mulberry bast fiber, while the base layer lacks ocher but has more lime. Coarse materials form the base, with finer materials used for the surface. The comparatively good condition of the wall of the Huilong Temple is benefited by the scientific recipe of the raw materials and the rigorous plastering process. This study not only enriches the understanding of the raw materials and techniques used in the plastering of ancient Chinese royal buildings, but also provides a scientific reference for the conservation and restoration of the ancient building complex in the Wudang Mountain.