Evaluation of compressive strength in cement mortars, according to the dosage established by the colombian seismic resistance code. Case study

Abstract

Context: In a masonry wall the mortar it is between 10 and 20% of the total volume of the system, despite its effect on the behavior of it is significantly higher than this percentage indicates. Objective: The purpose of this research was to evaluate the resistance to compression of two types of mortar paste (A and B), prepared with natural sand from the town of Usme in Bogotá, in accordance with the proportions set by the Standard Colombian earthquake Resistant regulation (NSR-10). Method: Two types of mortar paste were prepared, according to the proportions of cement and sand established in NSR-10 section D.3.4-1 of (Table 1); these proportions were calculated using a 0.0028 m3 container for measuring unit weight. For type A mortar rock sand was used and river sand for type B mortar. Results: The resistance to compression for mortars type A at the end of the study was on average 84% of the expected resistance, whereas for type B mortars it averaged 64% above the expected resistance. Conclusion: Mortar mixes made with crushed or rock (type A) arena do not reach the compressive strength required demanded by regulatory standards, despite complying with the dosage established in NSR 10 and with NTC quality criteria; while the natural sand origin or natural river sand meet these standards.

Keywords

• Mortero de pega, arena de peña, arena de río, resistencia a la compresión, dosificación