Microstructural characteristics of mortars prepared by hot lime mix

Abstract

The effect of lime characteristics and hot lime mix method on hydraulic, microstructural and mechanical properties of mortars is determined by producing mortars from quicklimes of two different marbles and two limestones. Results of SEM-EDS, XRD and TGA analyses reveal that the porous microstructure of mortars and spongy texture of calcite crystals are the indicators of the hot lime mix method. This study shows that characteristics of limestones used for the production of limes, as well as the preparation method, directly affect hydraulic, mechanical and microstructural properties of mortars.