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Surkhi mortar in brief

Short answer

Surkhi mortar is made by mixing lime with surkhi (finely ground burnt brick) in about 1:2 with water. The surkhi acts as a pozzolana, giving hydraulic properties, making it cheaper and damp-resistant for ordinary buildings, though weaker than cement mortar.

Describe (define) surkhi mortar.

Surkhi mortar is made by mixing lime (fat lime or hydraulic lime) with surkhi (finely ground burnt brick or burnt clay), in a ratio of about 1:2, and water. The surkhi acts as a pozzolana and gives the mortar hydraulic properties. It is used for ordinary buildings, foundations and damp places where cement is costly; it is cheaper and resists dampness, but it is weaker than cement mortar.

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