Deutsch: Mörtel / Español: Mortero / Português: Argamassa / Français: Mortier / Italiano: Malta
Mortar in the industrial and industry context refers to 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 to masonry walls. In construction, mortar is a fundamental material that provides structural integrity and cohesion.
Description
Mortar is typically a mixture of sand, a binder such as cement, lime, or a combination of both, and water. It can also include other substances like fibers and chemicals to improve its performance characteristics such as drying time, durability, and resistance to weather conditions. The properties of mortar can be adjusted by varying the proportions of its components to suit specific construction needs, environmental conditions, and types of masonry units.
Application Areas
Mortar is used extensively in several key areas within the construction industry:
- Masonry Construction: It is used as an adhesive to bind stones, bricks, and other types of building blocks.
- Repair and Restoration: Special types of mortars are used for the repair of historic buildings where traditional building materials are required.
- Plastering and Rendering: Mortar is also used to coat walls and ceilings for both protective and aesthetic purposes.
- Flooring: It is used to bed tiles and other floor elements.
Well-Known Examples
Mortar plays a critical role in many renowned construction projects and types of construction, such as:
- Historic Buildings: Many ancient structures that have stood the test of time, like the Roman aqueducts, utilized mortar based on lime and volcanic ash that has proven to be exceptionally durable.
- Modern Skyscrapers: Use advanced forms of mortar with special additives that provide extra strength and quick setting times to accommodate the fast-paced construction demands.
Treatment and Risks
The use of mortar involves several considerations and potential risks:
- Working Time and Cure Time: Mortar has a limited working time after it has been mixed, and it needs to cure properly to achieve its full strength. Environmental factors like temperature and humidity can significantly affect these times.
- Mix Consistency: Achieving the correct mix ratio of sand, binder, and water is crucial for the mortar's performance. Incorrect ratios can lead to weak bonding, reduced durability, and other structural problems.
- Health and Safety: Handling cement and lime, both common components of mortar, can pose health risks if not managed properly. These materials can cause skin irritation and alkaline burns and are hazardous if inhaled.
Similar Terms
- Concrete: Often confused with mortar, but concrete is a harder material typically used for structural components like foundations and load-bearing elements. It contains a higher proportion of gravel in addition to sand, cement, and water.
- Grout: A thinner form of mortar used to fill spaces like the gaps between tiles. Unlike mortar, grout usually contains finer particles and is designed to flow more easily.
Weblinks
- umweltdatenbank.de: 'Mörtel' im Lexikon der umweltdatenbank.de (German)
- architektur-lexikon.de: 'Mörtel' in the architektur-lexikon.de (German)
Summary
Mortar is an essential construction material known for its adhesive and cohesive properties, vital for masonry work. Its versatility allows it to be tailored for a variety of building purposes, playing a crucial role in both the structural integrity and aesthetic finishing of construction projects.