Mortar is a widely used construction material that has been in use for centuries. Its importance in construction lies in its ability to bind different building materials together to create a strong and stable structure. But what exactly is mortar and how does it differ from other materials used in construction? In this article, we will delve into the world of mortar, exploring its composition, classification, and properties. From traditional lime mortar to modern polymer-modified mortar, we will uncover the various types of mortar and their unique characteristics. By the end, readers will have a comprehensive understanding of what makes mortar an essential component in the world of construction.
What is mortar and its classification and properties
Mortar is a mixture of cement, sand, and water used in civil engineering for binding construction materials such as bricks, stones, and concrete blocks. It is an important building material that is commonly used in masonry construction. Mortar provides strength, durability, and water-tightness to masonry structures.
Classification of Mortar:
Mortar can be classified into various types based on its composition, strength, and purpose of use. The most commonly used classification is based on the type of binding material used, which includes the following:
1. Cement Mortar: This type of mortar is made with cement as the binding material. It provides high strength and is commonly used for load-bearing walls and structural applications.
2. Lime Mortar: Lime mortar is made with lime as the binding material and is known for its plasticity, workability, and self-healing properties. It is commonly used for historical and restoration works.
3. Gypsum Mortar: Gypsum mortar is made with gypsum as the binding material. It is lightweight and has good fire resistance. It is commonly used in low-load bearing walls and partitions.
4. Clay Mortar: Clay mortar is made with clay as the binding material. It is commonly used for non-load bearing walls and for filling in gaps between bricks or stones.
Properties of Mortar:
1. Workability: Mortar should have good workability to ensure easy and efficient placement, spreading, and finishing. This property is affected by the water-cement ratio, consistency, and fineness of the sand.
2. Compressive Strength: The strength of mortar is an important property as it ensures the stability of the masonry structure. The compressive strength of mortar depends on the type and proportion of materials used and curing conditions.
3. Bond Strength: Mortar should have good bond strength to ensure proper adhesion between the masonry units and to resist external forces such as wind and earthquakes.
4. Water Retention: Mortar should have good water retention to prevent the loss of moisture during the initial setting period and to allow sufficient time for the masonry units to bond together.
5. Durability: Mortar should be able to withstand the effects of weather, temperature changes, and chemical attacks. It should also be free from impurities, as they can affect the strength and durability of the masonry structure.
In conclusion, mortar is an essential material in civil engineering that plays a crucial role in the construction of masonry structures. Its classification and properties are important factors to consider in order to ensure the quality and durability of the structures. Proper selection and mix proportioning of mortar can result in a strong and long-lasting masonry construction.
What are classification of mortar
Mortar is a mixture of cement, sand, water, and sometimes lime, used to bind building blocks together. It is an essential element in masonry construction and is used for various purposes such as bonding bricks, stones, and concrete blocks, filling joints, and creating a smooth surface finish on walls.
Classification of mortar is based on different criteria such as the type of binder, the purpose of use, and the strength of the mixture. The following are the three main categories of mortar classification:
1. Based on the type of binder:
a. Cement mortar: This type of mortar is made by mixing cement, sand, and water. The cement acts as a binder and provides strength and durability to the mortar.
b. Lime mortar: It is a mixture of lime, sand, and water. Lime mortar has been traditionally used in construction, and it is known for its plasticity and workability. It also allows the walls to breathe, making it suitable for old and historic buildings.
c. Gypsum mortar: This type of mortar is made by mixing gypsum, sand, and water. It is commonly used for interior plastering and is suitable for areas where a quick drying time is required.
d. Clay mortar: Clay mortar is a mixture of clay, sand, and water. It has been used for centuries, and it is still popular in some regions for its low cost and ease of availability. However, it is not very strong and is not suitable for load-bearing structures.
2. Based on the purpose of use:
a. Bricklaying mortar: As the name suggests, this type of mortar is used for bricklaying. It is a mixture of cement or lime, sand, and water. The proportion of each ingredient may vary depending on the type of bricks to be used.
b. Pointing mortar: Pointing refers to filling the joints between bricks or stones. Pointing mortar is similar to bricklaying mortar but with a finer sand particle size to give a smooth and neat finish.
c. Plastering mortar: Plastering mortar is used for creating a smooth and even surface on walls. It is usually a mixture of cement or lime, sand, and water, with the addition of a small amount of gypsum to improve workability.
d. Tiling mortar: Tiling mortar is used in tile installation. It is a mixture of cement, sand, and water, with special additives to improve adhesion and prevent shrinkage.
3. Based on the strength:
a. Weak mortar: Weak mortar has a low binding capacity and is used for temporary structures or where low compressive strength is required.
b. Medium-strength mortar: This type of mortar is suitable for most general-purpose applications. It has a moderate binding capacity and can withstand moderate loads.
c. High-strength mortar: High-strength mortar is used for load-bearing structures and where high compressive strength is required. It has a higher proportion of cement or lime compared to sand.
In conclusion, mortar plays a crucial role in masonry construction, and its classification allows for the selection of the most suitable type for a specific application. It is essential to understand the characteristics and properties of each type of mortar to ensure the success of a construction project.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mortar is an essential building material that has been used for centuries to bind together bricks or stones in construction projects. Its specific properties, such as strength, durability, and workability, make it a versatile product for various applications. Mortar can be classified into four main types based on the binder used, namely cement mortar, lime mortar, clay mortar, and gypsum mortar, each with its unique characteristics and purposes. Understanding the different types and properties of mortar is crucial for achieving the desired results in any building project. From traditional to modern construction techniques, mortar continues to play a vital role in creating strong and durable structures. With advancements in technology, new types of mortar are being developed, bringing more possibilities for innovative and sustainable building practices.