Mortar MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Surkhi in lime mortar

Step-by-step solution

1. Surkhi is finely powdered burnt clay brick. 2. It reacts with lime in the presence of water and imparts hydraulic (water-setting) properties.

Explanation

Surkhi is a pozzolanic material. Adding it to fat lime mortar makes the mortar hydraulic, so it can set under damp conditions and gain strength.

Why the other options are wrong

It does not add solubility. Adhesion and cohesion are not the main contribution of surkhi.

Shortcut

Surkhi = artificial pozzolana.

Common mistake

Choosing cohesive properties.