Masonry cement mortar is primarily used where the sand available is suitable to provide adequate workability without the need for additional lime or plasticiser.
Key Applications and Considerations
Masonry cement mortar serves various purposes in construction, particularly in brickwork and blockwork where specific mortar properties are required. The application largely depends on the desired strength and flexibility of the mortar joint, which is controlled by the mix ratio of masonry cement to sand.
According to the reference, masonry cement mortar is utilized in situations where the natural properties of the sand itself contribute sufficiently to the mortar's workability. This avoids the necessity of incorporating other admixtures like lime or plasticisers to achieve the desired consistency for laying bricks or blocks.
Mix Ratios and Uses
The ratio of masonry cement to sand can be adjusted to suit different structural requirements:
- Rich Mix (1:2.5 Cement:Sand): This ratio is used for structural brickwork, demanding higher strength and durability. A common example cited is in the construction of manholes in roads, where the mortar needs to withstand significant loads and environmental stress.
- Leaner Mix (Up to 1:7 Cement:Sand): For applications requiring more movement tolerance in the structure, a leaner mix is preferred. This allows the mortar joints to accommodate minor shifts or expansions without cracking.
In contrast, the reference also mentions plasticised mortar, which uses different ratios (1:3 to 1:8) and implies the use of plasticisers, distinguishing it from standard masonry cement mortar applications where sand suitability is key.
In summary, the application of masonry cement mortar is specified for projects where the naturally available sand supports sufficient workability, making it suitable for a range of uses from robust structural elements to applications needing greater flexibility, controlled by varying the cement-to-sand ratio.
