OPINION PAGE
The Historic Bato Church in Catanduanes: A Fusion of Antiquity and Science Introduction
By: Raymond Sucgang (Senoior Researcher, PNRI-DOST)
The Bato Church, officially known as St. John the Baptist Church, stands as a testament to the rich historical and cultural heritage of Catanduanes. Constructed between 1830 and 1883, this ecclesiastical marvel is the oldest church in the province and one of the most significant religious edifices in the Bicol region. Beyond its historical and religious significance, the Bato Church is a remarkable example of the interplay between chemistry and physics in its construction and preservation.
Historical Significance
The Bato Church, with its baroque-style architecture, was built under the supervision of Spanish friars and local artisans. The church’s construction spanned more than five decades, reflecting the dedication and resilience of the community. Its walls, made of massive stones and lime mortar, have withstood the test of time, enduring natural calamities and the wear and tear of centuries.
Chemistry Concepts in Construction
The construction of Bato Church involved several key chemistry concepts, particularly in the materials used:
Lime Mortar: The primary binding material used in the church’s construction was lime mortar, a mixture of lime (calcium oxide, CaO) and sand. Lime was obtained by heating limestone (calcium carbonate, CaCO₃) in a kiln, a process known as calcination:
CaCO 3(s)→CaO (s) +CO 2(g)
The calcium oxide was then mixed with water to produce calcium hydroxide (slaked lime, Ca(OH)₂):
CaO (s) +H 2 O (l)→Ca(OH) 2(aq)
When the slaked lime was mixed with sand and water, it formed the lime mortar, which hardened over time by reacting with carbon dioxide in the air to form calcium carbonate:
Ca(OH) 2(aq)+CO 2(g)→CaCO 3(s) +H 2 O (l)
Pozzolanic Materials: The builders also incorporated pozzolanic materials, such as volcanic ash, which reacted with the lime to form a stronger and more durable cementitious compound. The pozzolanic reaction involves the formation of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H), which enhances the strength and durability of the mortar.
Physics Concepts in Architecture
The architecture and structural integrity of the Bato Church also highlight several physics principles:
Structural Stability: The church’s massive stone walls and buttresses exemplify the principles of load distribution and structural stability. The walls are designed to bear the weight of the heavy roof and resist lateral forces, ensuring the church’s longevity.
Thermal Properties: The thick stone walls provide excellent thermal mass, which helps regulate the interior temperature of the church. This thermal mass absorbs heat during the day and releases it slowly at night, maintaining a relatively constant and comfortable temperature inside.
Acoustics: The design of the church, with its high ceilings and vast interior space, creates unique acoustic properties. The sound waves produced during services are reflected and absorbed in ways that enhance the auditory experience, allowing voices and music to resonate clearly throughout the church.
Electromagnetic Shielding: The dense stone walls of the Bato Church also provide a degree of electromagnetic shielding, protecting the interior from external electromagnetic interference. This would have been particularly relevant in the past when lightning strikes posed a significant threat to buildings.
Conclusion
The Bato Church in Catanduanes is not only a historical and religious landmark but also a fascinating study in the application of chemistry and physics in ancient construction techniques. Its enduring structure and the science behind its materials and design highlight the ingenuity of the builders and the timeless principles of chemistry and physics that continue to be relevant in modern construction. As we admire its antiquity, we also appreciate the scientific foundations that have preserved this architectural gem for future generations.
