ABSTRACT
Lime mortars can be based on air-lime, pure calcium hydroxide, or hydraulic lime being a mixture of air-lime and hydraulic components. Air-lime has traditionally been used both as a binder and as an additive to improve the workability and water retention properties of masonry mortars. The ability to accommodate movements without significant cracking, requiring fewer movement joints, is a commonly cited benefit of mortars containing lime. This paper presents findings from an experimental study into the long-term movement characteristics of air-lime mortared masonry. The creep of cement-lime based (“blended”) mortars, containing varying quantities of air-lime, have been compared in an experimental study. Axial movements on mortar specimens and masonry wall panels have been recorded at regular intervals for up to 6 months. The long-term mortar movements are related to the strength and measured creep movement of masonry wall tests.
