Mortar

Mortar is a workable paste used to bind building blocks such as stones, bricks, and concrete masonry units together, fill and seal the irregular gaps between them, and sometimes add decorative colors or patterns in masonry walls. In its broadest sense, mortar includes pitch, asphalt, and soft mud or clay, as used between mud bricks. Mortar comes from Latin mortarium, meaning crushed.

Composition

The most common binder since the early 20th century is Portland cement but the ancient binder lime mortar is still used in some new construction. Lime and gypsum in the form of plaster of Paris are used particularly in the repair and repointing of buildings and structures because it is much more flexible than cement mortar.

Types

There are several types of mortar used in construction industry. The selection of type of mortar is dependent on the nature of the structure, the type of masonry unit, the climatic conditions, and the exposure of the structure.

Lime mortar

Lime mortar is composed of lime and an aggregate such as sand, mixed with water. The Ancient Egyptians were the first to use lime mortars. About 6,000 years ago, they used lime to plaster the pyramids at Giza. In addition, the Egyptians also incorporated various limes into their religious temples as well as their homes.

Cement mortar

Cement mortar is a mixture of cement, sand and water. It is the most commonly used mortar in construction industry. It is used for all types of masonry work such as brickwork, blockwork, stonework.

Gypsum mortar

Gypsum mortar, also called plaster of Paris, was used in the construction of the Egyptian pyramids and many other ancient structures. It is made from gypsum, which requires a lower firing temperature. It is therefore easier to make than lime mortar and sets up much faster which may be a reason it was used as the typical mortar in ancient, brick arch and vault construction.

See also

• Concrete
• Cement
• Brick

References

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