Masonry Mortar and Its Functions

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Questions and Answers

What are the main components of mortar for masonry work?

Clay, cement, and sand

Concrete, aggregate, and water

Gravel, water, and gypsum

Sand, cement or lime, and water (correct)

Why should the thickness of mortar in brickwork not exceed 15 mm?

To improve aesthetics

To prevent water penetration

Due to high shrinkage (correct)

To increase strength

What is the function of mortar in masonry work?

Act as a decorative element, provide structural support, and prevent water penetration

Create microcracks within the bricks or blocks, enhance the strength of the units, and provide vertical support

Joint the units together, seal any gaps to resist wind and rain penetration, and take up the tolerances between building units (correct)

Increase the weight of the brick, improve the aesthetic appearance, and resist movement

What is one of the requirements for mortar in masonry work?

Adhere to the vertical face of the units Signup and view all the answers

Why should mortar permit movement in masonry work?

To allow movement to occur in the form of microcracks within the mortar rather than cracking of the bricks or blocks Signup and view all the answers

What type of sand is recommended for mortar in masonry work?

Well graded – even distribution of particle sizes from fine to coarse Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of using sand containing silt and clay in mortar?

Unacceptable shrinkage movement Signup and view all the answers

What is the principal binding ingredient in modern binders?

Ordinary Portland cement Signup and view all the answers

What does non-hydraulic lime lack, resulting in poor water retention?

Setting and hardening strength Signup and view all the answers

What does adding air-entraining agent as a binder supplement accomplish?

Good workability characteristics Signup and view all the answers

When is sulphate resisting Portland cement used in place of Ordinary Portland cement?

To combat sulphate attack in prolong wet conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of air entrainment exceeding 12% of the volume?

Serious reduction in bonding performance Signup and view all the answers

Which type of masonry unit has a coefficient of linear thermal expansion between 11 - 15 x 10^-6/K?

Calcium silicate masonry units Signup and view all the answers

What are the properties achieved by using cement and sand (1:3) by volume?

High strength, good durability, density, and hardness Signup and view all the answers

What is the main drawback of using sand lacking in finer particles in mortar?

'Harsh unmanageable mortar' Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Mortar Components

Main components of mortar for masonry work: cement, sand, water, and lime

Mortar Thickness

Thickness of mortar in brickwork should not exceed 15 mm to ensure adequate bond strength

Mortar Function

Function of mortar in masonry work: to bond masonry units together, fill gaps, and provide a level surface

Mortar Requirements

One of the requirements for mortar in masonry work: to permit movement in masonry work to accommodate thermal and moisture changes

Sand Requirements

Recommended type of sand for mortar in masonry work: clean, sharp, and free from impurities
Effect of using sand containing silt and clay in mortar: reduces mortar strength and workability

Binders

Principal binding ingredient in modern binders: cement
Non-hydraulic lime lacks: water retention, resulting in poor durability

Air-Entraining Agent

Adding air-entraining agent as a binder supplement: improves workability and resistance to freeze-thaw damage

Cement Types

Sulphate resisting Portland cement is used in place of Ordinary Portland cement: in exposure to seawater, acidic, or sulphate-rich environments

Air Entrainment

Effect of air entrainment exceeding 12% of the volume: reduces mortar strength and durability

Masonry Units

Type of masonry unit with a coefficient of linear thermal expansion between 11 - 15 x 10^-6/K: extruded concrete masonry units

Cement and Sand Proportions

Properties achieved by using cement and sand (1:3) by volume: suitable for general masonry work

Sand Quality

Main drawback of using sand lacking in finer particles in mortar: reduces mortar workability and increases the risk of segregation

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Description

Test your knowledge about the composition and functions of masonry mortar, which is used to joint masonry units and resist wind and rain penetration. Learn about the requirements and components of mortar for masonry work.