Today i want to answer one important question that has
always occurred to me when i try to brainstorm on some new topics to write on
my blog. Its a question that might be of great importance to you as a civil
engineering student also. The question is "What is the difference between
Concrete, Cement Paste and Mortar?"
In order to provide the answer, let me first of all explain
what mortar, Concrete means.
What Is Concrete?
In a simple term, concrete is just comprised of a mixture of
cement, water, sand and granite in a prescribed proportion or ratio.
Concrete is usually heavier and of a great strength when it
has been placed. Concrete is usually common with structural elements like
Beams, Slabs and Columns.
Now lets see what mortar is all about.
What Is Cement Mortar?
 |
| Cement mortar under mix |
A Cement Mortar is usually a mixture of cement, sand and water in a
prescribed proportion. It plays a very vital role in holding building materials
together.
The function of water in a mortar is to help hydrate the
cement thereby holding the mixture together.
Lets Also Read A few lines about Cement
What is Cement?
 |
| Cement Before mix |
Cement is many things to a civil engineer. It is a binder,
just like flour in baking. The cement holds materials together by an act of
binding which is usually activated when water is introduced into the system.
Now lets read a few lines about cement paste
What Is Cement Paste?
A cement Paste is usually a mixture of cement and water.
Cement paste is composed of Portland cement and water which later hardens after
hydration has taken place thereby forming a rock-like mass known as concrete If
Granite and sand is brought introduced.
What is the Difference between Mortar And Concrete?
The difference between mortar and concrete is simple. Stick
close.
There is mortar in concrete, but then the granite or gravel
incorporated during the making process of concrete makes concrete much stronger
than mortar.
In terms of Use, Mortar is used to bind bricks (Softer
element of the building), while Concrete is used for the stronger elements like
Beams, Columns, Slabs, Abutments, etc.
Difference between Concrete and Cement Paste
As discussed above, a cement paste is formed when water is
introduced into cement. There is no presence of stones in the system. However, I
must cite here that there cannot be a concrete without the binding force of
cement paste. This is because it is only the paste that binds the stones in the
concrete together.
Well, i hope the answer here is able to explain the questions you may have regarding cement paste, Cement, Concrete and Mortar.
Will be looking forward to your criticisms and suggestions as these would help build a more credible platform for other researches, students and teachers out there.