BUILDING
MORTARS &
PLASTER
INTRODUCTION
What is
Mortar?
A mixture of cement/lime, sand, and water used for binding bricks,
stones, and masonry units.
What is
Plaster?
A paste-like material applied to walls and ceilings to create a
smooth surface.
BRIEF HISTORY
• Ancient Times: Egyptians used lime and gypsum mortars in
pyramids (~2500 BC).
• Greek & Roman Period: Used pozzolanic mortar (volcanic
ash + lime) in structures like the Pantheon.
• Middle Ages: Lime mortar became standard in European
architecture.
• Modern Era: Introduction of Portland cement and synthetic
additives improved durability.
MORTARS
COMPOSITON
Main Components:
• Cement/Lime : Acts as a binder
• Sand : Provides strength and volume
• Water : Activates chemical reaction for setting
• Additives : Improve workability and durability
COMPOSITON
Types of Mortars:
• Lime Mortar (Lime + Sand)
– Flexible, used in historic
buildings.
COMPOSITON
Types of Mortars:
• Cement Mortar (Cement +
Sand + Water) – Strong, used in
modern construction.
COMPOSITON
Types of Mortars:
• Gypsum Mortar (Gypsum
+ Sand) – Fast-setting,
used for interior work.
PROPERTIES & CHARACTERISTICS
• Workability: Easy to spread and apply
• Adhesion: Bonds well to bricks and stones
• Strength: Resistant to compression
• Durability: Withstands weather conditions
• Setting Time: Varies depending on cement type and additives
USES OF MORTARS IN CONSTRUCTION
• Bricklaying: Holds bricks and stones together
• Plastering & Rendering: Provides a smooth surface on walls
• Pointing & Repair Works: Fills joints and cracks in structures
PLASTER
COMPOSITON
Main Components:
• Gypsum/Lime/Cement : Binding agents
• Sand : Provides bulk
• Water : Helps in mixing and setting
• Additives : Improve setting time, flexibility, and water
resistance
COMPOSITON
Types of Mortars:
• Gypsum Plaster – Fast-
setting, smooth finish
COMPOSITON
Types of Mortars:
• Lime Plaster –
Breathable, used in
historical buildings
COMPOSITON
Types of Mortars:
• Cement Plaster –
Durable, used for exterior
walls
PROPERTIES & CHARACTERISTICS
• Smooth Finish: Provides a polished surface
• Durability: Resistant to wear and tear
• Fire Resistance: Some types offer protection against fire
• Thermal Insulation: Helps regulate temperature inside
buildings
USES OF MORTARS IN CONSTRUCTION
• Wall Finishing: Covers rough surfaces for a smooth
appearance
• Decorative Applications: Used for moldings and artistic
details
• Fire Protection: Some plasters provide a fire-resistant layer
COMPARISON: MORTARS VS. PLASTER
Feature Mortar Plaster
Bonding Finishing
Purpose
bricks/stones walls/ceilings
Gypsum, lime,
Composition Cement, lime, sand
cement
Thickness 10-20mm 2-10mm
Application Structural Aesthetic
THANKYOU!