This material is part of the free Environmental Performance in Construction (EPiC) Database. The EPiC Database contains embodied environmental flow coefficients for 250+ construction materials using a comprehensive hybrid life cycle inventory approach.
Cement mortar contains Portland cement, sand and hydrated lime. It is used as a bonding layer for bricks, masonry blocks and stonework.
It is generally available in bags (usually up to 20 kg) and is mixed with water on site to form a highly workable paste. Once cured, it becomes hard but is designed to be weaker than the masonry elements it is used with.
A range of mortar types are available, ranging in strength depending on the mix ratio, with stronger mortars containing a higher proportion of cement. Mortars containing alternative binders are also available, including polymer cement and lime mortars.