Question 1

What is चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco)?

Accepted Answer

चूना लिप्ता (Chunā Liptā), also known as चूना पलस्तर (Chunā Palastar) or सुधालेप (Sudhalepa), is a traditional lime stucco widely employed in Indic architecture [1]. Primarily a plaster, coating, or mortar, it comprises lime (calcium hydroxide), sourced from limestone quarries across Rajasthan and Gujarat, and aggregate like sand [2]. The chemical composition is predominantly Ca(OH)₂. Traditional processing involves slaking quicklime (CaO) to produce hydrated lime.

Physical properties include compressive strength of 2-5 MPa, porosity of 20-30%, and density of 1400-1700 kg/m³. Its breathability and thermal conductivity (0.8-1.1 W/mK) are notable. Historically, the Gupta, Vijayanagara, Mughal, and Rajput dynasties utilized Chunā Liptā extensively in structures like forts, palaces, and temples. Additives like *surkhi* (brick dust) enhance pozzolanic activity.

Conservation requires understanding its composition and degradation mechanisms. Restoration involves using compatible lime-based mortars. Heritage sites in Tamil Nadu use சுண்ணாம்பு சாந்து (Cunnāmpu cāntu) [3]. Understanding traditional *vastu shastra* principles is crucial for authentic restoration.

Question 2

What type of material is चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco)?

Accepted Answer

चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco) is classified as Plaster, Coating, Mortar, Render. Key properties include Compressive strength: 2-5 MPa, Porosity: 20-30%, Density: 1400-1700 kg/m³.

Question 3

Where is चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco) used?

Accepted Answer

चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco) is commonly used in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh. It is sourced from Local lime kilns using limestone, River sand deposits.

Question 4

How is चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco) is used for Wall plaster, Ceiling plaster, Decorative moldings, Sculptural details, Waterproofing layer in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco) requires attention to Susceptible to cracking due to substrate movement and Vulnerable to water damage. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Cūnā lipta plāstar Lime Stucco 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	चूना लिप्ता (Chunā Liptā), also known as चूना पलस्तर (Chunā Palastar) or सुधालेप (Sudhalepa), is a traditional lime stucco widely employed in Indic architecture [1]. Primarily a plaster, coating, or mortar, it comprises lime (calcium hydroxide), sourced from limestone quarries across Rajasthan and Gujarat, and aggregate like sand [2]. The chemical composition is predominantly Ca(OH)₂. Traditional processing involves slaking quicklime (CaO) to produce hydrated lime. Physical properties include compressive strength of 2-5 MPa, porosity of 20-30%, and density of 1400-1700 kg/m³. Its breathability and thermal conductivity (0.8-1.1 W/mK) are notable. Historically, the Gupta, Vijayanagara, Mughal, and Rajput dynasties utilized Chunā Liptā extensively in structures like forts, palaces, and temples. Additives like surkhi (brick dust) enhance pozzolanic activity. Conservation requires understanding its composition and degradation mechanisms. Restoration involves using compatible lime-based mortars. Heritage sites in Tamil Nadu use சுண்ணாம்பு சாந்து (Cunnāmpu cāntu) [3]. Understanding traditional vastu shastra principles is crucial for authentic restoration.
Also Known As	Lime Stucco Cūnā lipta plāstar Lime Plaster Lime Render Stucco Lime Coating चूना पलस्तर चूना लेप सुधालेप சுண்ணாம்பு சாந்து (Cunnāmpu cāntu) సున్నపు గచ్చు (Sunnapu gaccu) ಸುಣ್ಣದ ಗಾರೆ (Sunnada gāre) சுண்ணாம்பு பூச்சு (Cunnāmpu pūccu) சுண்ணாம்புச் சாந்து (Cunnāmpuc cāntu)
Tags	चूना पलस्तर Chunā Palastar Lime Stucco Plaster Coating चूना लिप्ता Chunā Liptā Mortar Lime Plaster Lime Render
Material ID	`INHFMAT-002857994-20-11-25-CE`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/lime-stucco
API Endpoint	`https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/lime-stucco`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	1
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	Gupta Period Medieval Period Vijayanagara Empire Mughal Empire
Dynasties	Gupta Dynasty Vijayanagara Dynasty Mughal Dynasty Rajput Dynasty

Title	Type	Notes
Traditional Indian Plasters	Article	Composition and application
Traditional Indian Lime Plasters	Technical Report	Composition and application techniques

चूना लिप्त प्लास्टर (Lime Stucco)

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