Aggregate and filler materials used in drymix mortar
Aggregate and filler materials are essential components of drymix mortar. They are added to provide strength, stability, and workability to the mortar, and can affect the properties of the final product. Here are some commonly used aggregate and filler materials in drymix mortar:
- Sand: Sand is the most common aggregate used in drymix mortar. It is used as the main filler material and provides the bulk of the volume of the mortar. Sand is available in a variety of sizes and grades, which can affect the strength and workability of the mortar.
- Calcium carbonate: Calcium carbonate, also known as limestone, is a commonly used filler material in drymix mortar. It is a white powder that is added to the mortar to increase its bulk density and to provide some additional strength.
- Fly ash: Fly ash is a byproduct of burning coal and is a common additive in cement-based materials. It is used as a filler material in drymix mortar to provide strength and reduce the amount of cement needed.
- Perlite: Perlite is a lightweight aggregate material that is commonly used in drymix mortar. It is made from volcanic glass and is used to reduce the overall weight of the mortar and to provide insulation properties.
- Vermiculite: Vermiculite is another lightweight aggregate material that is used in drymix mortar. It is made from natural minerals and is used to improve the workability of the mortar and to reduce its weight.
- Glass beads: Glass beads are small, round beads made from recycled glass. They are used as a lightweight filler material in drymix mortar to reduce the overall weight of the mortar and to improve its insulation properties.
- Silica fume: Silica fume is a byproduct of producing silicon metal and is a very fine powder that is used as a filler material in drymix mortar. It is used to increase the strength and durability of the mortar and to reduce its permeability.
Overall, the choice of aggregate and filler materials in drymix mortar depends on the desired properties of the final product. The right combination of materials can provide the strength, stability, workability, and insulation properties required for a wide range of construction applications.