Which material increases mortar strength?

Which material increases mortar strength?

• A. Lime
• B. Water
• C. Cement
• D. Sand

Answer: (C)

The strength of mortar comes from the binder that glues the aggregate together. Cement acts as the primary binding material; when it hydrates with water, it hardens into a rigid matrix that tightly bonds the sand particles, giving higher compressive strength and stiffness. Lime mortars are more flexible and breathable but produce lower compressive strength because their binding matrix remains softer. Water is essential for the chemical reaction but does not by itself increase strength and excess water increases porosity, weakening the mortar. Sand provides the aggregate and helps with texture and workability, but it does not increase strength on its own—the strength comes from the cement paste that binds the sand.

The strength of mortar comes from the binder that glues the aggregate together. Cement acts as the primary binding material; when it hydrates with water, it hardens into a rigid matrix that tightly bonds the sand particles, giving higher compressive strength and stiffness. Lime mortars are more flexible and breathable but produce lower compressive strength because their binding matrix remains softer. Water is essential for the chemical reaction but does not by itself increase strength and excess water increases porosity, weakening the mortar. Sand provides the aggregate and helps with texture and workability, but it does not increase strength on its own—the strength comes from the cement paste that binds the sand.