Effect of volcanic tuff on the characteristics of cement mortar

Abstract

This article examines how Jordanian volcanic tuff aggregates affect the characteristics of cement mortar. Five mortar mixes were prepared by replacing normal aggregate (standard sand) with volcanic tuff aggregate in ratios of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% (M1–M5, respectively). Compressive strength, flexural strength and unit weight were tested at mortar ages of 3, 7, 28 and 56 days. The results revealed improved compressive and flexural strength, which were maximal for M3. Unit weight decreased as the ratio of volcanic tuff increased. Based on these results, adding Jordanian volcanic tuff in the appropriate ratio will improve these mortar characteristics.

Keywords:

• compression
• flexure strength
• cement mortar
• volcanic tuff
• Jordan

Acknowledgement

This research would not have been possible without financial support from the Scientific Research Support Fund (SRF) under the project of “Utilization of Jordanian volcanic tuff in different engineering applications”. We would like to place on record our sincere appreciation for the funding provided by SRF.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Scientific Research Support Fund (SRF) under the project of “Utilization of Jordanian volcanic tuff in different engineering applications”.