Masonry Magazine April 1992 Page. 1
masonry
MARCH/APRIL 1992
A New Look at Mortar Technology
By Christine Beall, P.E.
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Mortar is one of the oldest and most basic construction materials. It is used to bond masonry units together and to fill the spaces between them. Mortar also contributes to the appearance of a masonry wall.
The properties of mortar have a significant impact on the performance of a masonry wall. Mortar must be strong enough to resist the stresses imposed on it, but it must also be flexible enough to accommodate movement in the wall. Mortar must also be durable enough to withstand the effects of weathering.
In recent years, there have been a number of advances in mortar technology. These advances have led to the development of new mortars that are stronger, more flexible, and more durable than traditional mortars.
This article will provide a new look at mortar technology. It will discuss the properties of mortar, the different types of mortar available, and the latest advances in mortar technology.
Properties of Mortar
The properties of mortar are determined by its composition. Mortar is typically composed of cement, lime, sand, and water. The proportions of these ingredients can be varied to produce mortars with different properties.
Cement is the primary binding agent in mortar. It provides the mortar with its strength and durability. Lime is added to mortar to improve its workability and to reduce its shrinkage. Sand is added to mortar to provide bulk and to reduce its cost. Water is added to mortar to hydrate the cement and to make the mortar workable.
The properties of mortar that are most important for masonry construction are its strength, flexibility, and durability.
Strength is the ability of mortar to resist stress. The strength of mortar is determined by the type and amount of cement used in the mortar.
Flexibility is the ability of mortar to accommodate movement in a masonry wall. The flexibility of mortar is determined by the type and amount of lime used in the mortar.
Durability is the ability of mortar to withstand the effects of weathering. The durability of mortar is determined by the type and amount of cement and lime used in the mortar.
Types of Mortar
There are a number of different types of mortar available. The most common types of mortar are:
* Type M mortar: This is the strongest type of mortar. It is typically used for masonry walls that are subject to high stresses, such as retaining walls and foundations.
* Type S mortar: This is a medium-strength mortar. It is typically used for masonry walls that are subject to moderate stresses, such as exterior walls and chimneys.
* Type N mortar: This is a general-purpose mortar. It is typically used for masonry walls that are not subject to high stresses, such as interior walls and partitions.
* Type O mortar: This is a low-strength mortar. It is typically used for masonry walls that are not subject to any stresses, such as non-load-bearing walls.
The type of mortar that is used for a particular masonry project should be selected based on the stresses that the wall will be subjected to.
Advances in Mortar Technology
In recent years, there have been a number of advances in mortar technology. These advances have led to the development of new mortars that are stronger, more flexible, and more durable than traditional mortars.
One of the most significant advances in mortar technology is the development of polymer-modified mortars. Polymer-modified mortars are mortars that have been modified with polymers. The polymers improve the properties of the mortar, making it stronger, more flexible, and more durable.
Another significant advance in mortar technology is the development of self-consolidating mortars. Self-consolidating mortars are mortars that are able to flow into place without the need for vibration. This makes them ideal for use in masonry walls that are difficult to access.
Conclusion
Mortar is a critical component of masonry construction. The properties of mortar have a significant impact on the performance of a masonry wall. In recent years, there have been a number of advances in mortar technology. These advances have led to the development of new mortars that are stronger, more flexible, and more durable than traditional mortars.