- 2076 Asoj · 2+1 marks
Cement mortar versus lime mortar
Short answer
Mortar is a plastic mixture of binder, sand and water for masonry and plaster. Good mortar has workability, bond, strength, water resistance and durability. Cement mortar is strong (5-10 MPa), sets quickly by hydration, and suits damp places. Lime mortar is weaker (1-2 MPa), sets slowly by carbonation, has better workability and is used for light interior plaster.
Define mortar and explain its engineering characteristics. Differentiate between cement and lime mortar.
Mortar is a plastic mixture of a binding material (cement, lime or mud), sand and water used for joining masonry units and for plastering and pointing.
Engineering characteristics
- Good workability and plasticity so it fills joints.
- Adequate bond with masonry units and sufficient compressive strength.
- Good water retentivity and impermeability.
- Appropriate setting time; no shrinkage cracks.
- Durable against weather and economical.
Cement mortar versus lime mortar
| Point | Cement mortar | Lime mortar |
|---|---|---|
| Binder | Portland cement | Fat or hydraulic lime |
| Strength | High (5-10 MPa and more) | Low (about 1-2 MPa) |
| Setting | Quick (30 min to 10 hr) | Slow (days) |
| Hardening | By hydration | By carbonation (with CO2) |
| Water resistance | Good in damp places | Fat lime poor; hydraulic lime fair |
| Workability | Less | Better |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Use | RCC, load-bearing walls, foundations | Light structures, interior plaster |
✓ Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort)
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