Aggregate for dry mix mortar

Aggregate is an essential component in the production of dry mix mortar. It refers to the granular materials, such as sand, gravel, crushed stone, and slag, that are used to form the bulk of the mortar mix. Aggregates provide mechanical strength, volume stability, and dimensional stability to the mortar. They also act as fillers and enhance the workability, durability, and resistance to shrinkage and cracking of the mortar.

The properties of aggregates used in dry mix mortar vary depending on the type, source, and processing method. The choice of aggregate is based on several factors such as the type of application, the desired strength and texture, and the availability and cost of the material.

The following are some of the common types of aggregates used in dry mix mortar:

1. Sand: Sand is the most commonly used aggregate in dry mix mortar production. It is a natural or manufactured granular material that consists of particles ranging in size from 0.063 mm to 5 mm. Sand provides the bulk of the mortar mix and enhances its workability, compressive strength, and dimensional stability. Different types of sand, such as river sand, sea sand, and crushed sand, can be used depending on their availability and quality.
2. Gravel: Gravel is a coarse aggregate that consists of particles ranging in size from 5 mm to 20 mm. It is commonly used in dry mix mortar production for applications that require high strength and durability, such as structural and flooring applications. Gravel can be natural or manufactured, and the choice of the type depends on the specific application and the availability of the material.
3. Crushed stone: Crushed stone is a coarse aggregate that consists of particles ranging in size from 20 mm to 40 mm. It is commonly used in dry mix mortar production for applications that require high strength and stability, such as concrete and masonry applications. Crushed stone can be natural or manufactured, and the choice of the type depends on the specific application and the availability of the material.
4. Slag: Slag is a by-product of the steel industry that is commonly used as a coarse aggregate in dry mix mortar production. It consists of particles ranging in size from 5 mm to 20 mm and provides good workability, compressive strength, and dimensional stability to the mortar mix.
5. Lightweight aggregates: Lightweight aggregates are used in dry mix mortar production to reduce the weight of the mortar and enhance its insulation properties. They are commonly made from materials such as expanded clay, shale, or perlite, and provide good workability, insulation, and fire resistance to the mortar mix.

In conclusion, aggregate is an essential component in the production of dry mix mortar. It provides mechanical strength, volume stability, and dimensional stability to the mortar mix and enhances its workability, durability, and resistance to shrinkage and cracking. The choice of aggregate depends on several factors such as the type of application, the desired strength and texture, and the availability and cost of the material.