Disclosure to Promote the Right To Information

Whereas the Parliament of India has set out to provide a practical regime of right to
information for citizens to secure access to information under the control of public authorities,
in order to promote transparency and accountability in the working of every public authority,
and whereas the attached publication of the Bureau of Indian Standards is of particular interest
to the public, particularly disadvantaged communities and those engaged in the pursuit of
education and knowledge, the attached public safety standard is made available to promote the
timely dissemination of this information in an accurate manner to the public.
1 +, 1 +

01 ' 5

The Right to Information, The Right to Live

Step Out From the Old to the New

Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan

Jawaharlal Nehru

IS 2250 (1981): Code of Practice for Preparation and Use of

Masonry Mortars [CED 13: Building Construction Practices
including Painting, Varnishing and Allied Finishing]

! $ ' +-
Satyanarayan Gangaram Pitroda

Invent a New India Using Knowledge

! > 0 B

BharthariNtiatakam

Knowledge is such a treasure which cannot be stolen

IS :2260-1981
Reaffirmed 1990
2000 ))
(( Reaffirmed

Indian Standard
CODE OF PRACTICE FOR
PREPARATION
AND USE OF
MASONRY
MORTARS

( First Revision )
Third Reprint FEBRUARY

UDC

BUREAU
MANAK

Gr 7

OF
BHAVAN,

1993

691-53 : 694KIl-3

INDIAN
9 BAHADUR

STANDARDS

SHAH
NEW DELHI 110002

ZAFAR

MARG

Jub

1981

IS : 2250 - 1981

Indian Standard
CODE OF PRACTICE FOR
PREPARATION AND USE OF
MASONRY MORTARS

( First Revision )
Building

Construction

Practices

Sectional

Committee,

BDC

13

Chairman
SllR1C.P. MALII<
C-4/38,

Safdarjung Development
Npw Delhi

Reprcscntittg

Members

Housing
& Urban Development
Corporation
Limited, New Delhi
Forest Research Institute & Colleges, Dehra Dun
Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Bombay
Indian Institute of Architects, New Delhi
Public Works Department,
Government of Uttar
Pradesh, Lucknow

S~nr SURAJ S. J. BABADUR

SHRI A. N. BAJAJ
SRRI D. R. BATLIVALA
SHRI J. R. BHALLA
SHRI M. C. BHARQAVA

SERI R. K. MATHUR ( Alternate )

CH;;~E~;INEER

Area,

( BLD~S ), PWD,

Public Works Department,

Nadu

Government

of Tamil

SUPERINTENDING
ENGINEER,
( SPECIAL BUILDING CIRCLE ),
PWD, MADURA~ ( Alternate )
CEIEF ENQINEER-CUM-ADDITIONAL Public
Works
Department,
Government
Rajasthan
SECRETARY
TO
TEE
GOVERNMENT (B&R)
EXECUTIVE
ENGINEER
( DESIQN & SPECIFICATION ) ( Alternate )
Central Public Works Department, New Delhi
CHIEF ENGINEER ( NDZ )
SUPERINTENDINGI SURVEYOR
OF WORKS ( NDZ ) ( Alternate )
D 1 R E c T o R ( ARCHITECTURE ), Railway Board ( Ministry of Railways )
RDSO, LUCKNOW
JOINT DIRECTOR ( ARCHITECTURE ), RDSO, LU~ENOW ( Aftemalc )

of

( Continued on page 2 )

0 Copyright 1981

BUREAU

OF

INDIAN

STANDARDS

This Bublication is protected under the Indian Copyright Act (XIV of 1957) and
reproduction in whole or in part by any means except with written permission of the
publisher shall be deemed to be an infringement of copyright under the said Act.

IS:22!.50-'1981
( Conrinucdfrom page 1 )
Representing

Members

Builders Association of India, New Delhi

SHXI H. S. DUQAL
BRIG HARISH CHANDRA ( -4ltcrnote)
Public
Works
Departmenr,
Government
of
San1 B. S. GREWAL
Punjab, Chandigarh
Institution of Surveyors, New Delhi
&KRI R. L. KUMAR
SRRI K. S. KHARB (Alternate )
Tata Consulting Engineers, Bombay
SHRI M. 2. KURIEN
Hindustan Prefab Limited, New Delhi
SRI
G. K. MAJUMDAR
SHRI H. S. PASRICHA ( Alternate )
Centr$orziding
Research
Institute ( CSIR ),
SHRI R. C. MANGAL
SRRI J. P. JAIBINQH ( Altern& )
Life Insurance Corporation of India, Bombay
SRRI R. K. PANDARE
DEPUTY
CIXIEF ENQINEER
SHRI & N;RTR@o&
)
Public Works & Housing Department, Bombay
.
Bureau of Public
Enterprises
( Ministry of
SHRI T: K. SARAN
Finance ), New Delhi
SHRI S. S. KAIMAL ( Alfcrnatc )
Engineer-in-Chiefs
Branch, Army Headquarters,
SHRI R. D. SINC?H
New Delhi
SHRI M. G. VIR~ANI ( Alternutc )
Gammon India Ltd, Bombay
SHRI S. R. SIVASWAMY
SH~I H. D. MATANQE ( Altcrnafc )
National Buildings Organization, New Delhi
SERI K. S. SRINIVASAN
DEPUTY DZ~E~TOR ( Altern& )
National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd,
SHRI SUSHIL KUMAR
New Delhi
Concrete Association of India, Bombay
SRRI B. T. UNWALLA
SHXI Y. K. MERTA ( Alternate)
Institution of Engineers ( India), Calcutta
SHRI B. T. UNWALLA
SERI JIVAN DATT ( Ailcrnate )
Director General&$
( Ex-ojicio Member )
Soar G. RYAN,
Director ( Civ Engg )
Secretary
SHRI S. SFX GIJPTA
Assistant Director ( Civ Engg ),

Masonry

Construction

Subcommittee,

~1s

BDC 13 : 7

Convcncr
DR R. K. GHOSH

Centgraload

Research

Institute

( CSIR ), New

Members
Cnrss

EN~INER~

SIIRI DALJIV SINGH (Altrrmtc)

National Buildings Construction

New Delhi

Corporation

Ltd,

( Continued on page 31)

IS:2250-1981

Indian Standard
CODE OF PRACTICE FOR
PREPARATION AND USE OF
MASONRY MORTARS
(

First Revision )

0.

FOREWORD

0.1 This Indian Standard

(First Revision ) was adopted by the Indian

Standards Institution on 27 February 1981, after the draft finalized by the
Building Construction Practices Sectional Committee had been approved
by the Civil Engineering Division Council.
0.2 Choice of masonry mortar is governed by several considerations, such
as type of masonry, situation of use, degree of exposure to weather,
strength re*quirements, besides special considerations like fire resistance,
insulation, rate of setting and hardening, etc. The ingredients for mortar
have also a wide variety.
Cementitious ingredients may be cement or
lime or combinations of these and with or without addition of pozzolanas,
plasticizers, etc. The aggregates may be sand, burnt-clay aggregate or
cinder.
As many of these ingredients have a wide variation in characteristics, the proportions in which they are to be mixed depend largely on
practical experience with local materials. However, with the development
of standard specifications to govern the quality of cement, lime, sand and
other pozzolanic materials, it is possible to apply some of the basic
principles for selection and use of masonry mortars, which have accrued
This
as a result of research work in this field in the country and abroad.
standard is intended to provide such guidance regarding properties and
use of masonry mortars.
0.3 This standard, published in 1965, was intended to bring out a long
felt uniformity in the variety of practices being followed by various
organizations in the country in the preparation of cement mortars, cement
lime mortars and their use is masonry works. A separate standard,
namely IS : 1625, was published in 1962 and revised in 197 1 covering
information regarding properties and preparation of lime mortars and
their use in masonrv works. The Sectional Committee resoonsible for
the preparation of ihis standard, while taking- up this revision, felt that
the requirements for both cement mortars and lime mortars should be
3

IS : 2250 - 1981
brought
together
in one standard.
Thus,
this revision
is prepared
incorporating
the provision
of IS: 1625-1971
and
to incorporate
improvements
found necessary in the light of the usage of the standard,
and the suggestions
made by various organizations
implementing
it.
IS : 1625-1971
will be withdrawn with the printing of this revision.
The
0.3.1 In this revision, number of changes have been incorporated.
most significant being the gradation of masonry mortars only in terms
of.
their
minimum
compressive
strength
( at the age of 28 days), since
proportioning
of mortars by loose volume would not allow adjustment
to
take care of variations in the quality of the ingredients
(see Table 1).
However,
volumetric
proportioning
( by loose volume ) being the only
practice
being followed in the country, mortars in terms of different
nominal
mix proportions
and which would give the range of above
compressive strengths ( at the age of 28 days ) have also been included in
this revision as a guidance
to the users.
The
technical
committee
responsible for the preparation
of this revision feels that where facilities
for determining
the actual mix proportion
corresponding
to the specified
grade are not available,
the nominal mixes as specified in this revision
may be used.
The committee
in this respect recognises the existence
of additional
mixes other than what has been included in this revision,
which might provide greater flexibility of choice to the users,
But it is
f+ that inclusion of all possible combinations
might not only burden the
code but also might not be needed for the construction of great majority
of masonry.
The committee
also appreciates
the necessity o[ reflecting
the expected increase in strength of lime based mortars after 28 days,
which is otherwise the basis of gradation
of masonry mortars, and feels
the necessity of including
a provision
for taking
advantage
of this
expected
increased
strength.
But in the absence of definite technical
data, the concept of substantial growth in strength of lime based mortars
after 28 days is being excluded from the present version.
Investigations
are in progress and the information
will be added in the standard
as
and when available.
Further, the method of mixing the ingredients for
various types of mortars has been dealt in detail in this revision and the
method
of determining
the compressive
strength of mortars has been
modified.
Only SI units have been used in this revision.
0.4 For the purpose of deciding whether a particular requirement
of this
standard
is complied
with, the final value, observed
or calculated,
expressing
the result of a test or analysis,
shall be rounded
off in
accordance
with IS: 2-19607.
The number of significant
places retained
in the rounded off value should be the same as that of the specified value
in this standard.
*Code of practice
for preparation
tRules for rounding
off numerical

of lime mortar for use in buildings

values ( rwirerll.

(Jirsl reaision )

IS : 2250 - 1981
1. SCOPE
1.1 This standard covers the preparation
use in masonry works.
NOTE-Use of mud mortars,
covered in this standard.

of masonry mortars

gypsum mortars

and bituminous

and their

mortars

is not

2. TERMINOLOGY
2.0 For the purpose of this standard, the following definitions in addition

to those given in IS : 6508-1972*

and IS : 4305-1967t

shall apply.

2.1 Mortar - Mortar is a homogeneous mixture, produced by intimately

mixing cementitious materials, water and inert materials, such as sand,
to the required consistency for use in building together with masonry
units.
2.2 Lime Mortar
2.3 Composite

A mortar containing lime and sand.

Mortar-A

addition to other ingredients.

mortar

containing

cement

and lime

in

)1
2.4 Grade of Masonry Mortar -The
grade of a masonry mortar
will be defined by its compressive strength in N/mm2 at the age
of 28 days, as determined by the standard procedure
detailed in
Appendix A.
2.5 Consistency -The
working consistency of a mortar or plastering
Its
mix as judged by the worker from its behaviour during application.
such as initial fluidity, water
assessment includes
characteristics,
retentivity, etc.
physio-chemical
changes observed in a mortar
2.6 Hardening -The
due to the effect of one or more of the following phenomena:
a) Absorption of carbon dioxide,
b) Recrystallization,
c) Chemical

and

reaction.

2.7 Setting - The physical and chemical changes observed in a mortar

mainly due to the hydration of hydraulic constituents of the mortar or
due to the interaction of some of the constituents or a combination of both
the types of reactions.
*Glossary of terms relating to building lime.
tGlossary of terms relating to potizolana.

IS : 2250 - 1981
2.8 Water Retentivity -

The ability of mortars to retain water against

It is indirectly
a measure of the
suction and evaporation
in general.
workability
of mortars.
It is measured
by the flow of mortar when
tested on a standard Aow table before and after application of a specified
suction
( see Appendix C ).

2.9 Workability -That

property
of freshly
mixed
mortar
which
determines the ease and homogeneity
with which it can be mixed, placed,
compacted
and finished.
It is the amount
of energy
to overcome
friction and cause full consolidation.
3. NECESSARY

3.1 Proper
following

INFORMATION

selection
factors:

of

mortars

for

Type
of masonry,
namely
block work, etc, and strength

various

uses

depends

upon

the

brick work, stone work, concrete

of individual masonry unit;

b) Situation

of use of the masonry, namely, whether in foundation,

superstructure,
etc.
Conditions
of surrounding
soil in the case
of foundation work;

c) Load
4

which

Conditions
of masonry

the masonry

will have to bear;

of exposure to weather or soil conditions

buried below ground level;

in the case

e) Type

and grading of fine aggregates

to be used in the mortar,
namely, whether sand, burnt-clay
aggregate or cinder aggregate;

f 1 In

the case of hydraulic structures weathering conditions

water contact and under water head action; and

9) In

case of use in storage

fertilizers.

of acidic

or alkaline

substances

under
like

4. MATERIALS

4.1 Cement conform

Cement used in the preparation

to either IS : 269-I 976* or 4551976t

*Specification
tSpecification
$Specification

of masonry mortar shall

or IS : 1489-1976:
or

for ordinary
and low heat Portland
cement ( third revision).
for Portland
slag cement f third r&ion ).
for Portland-pozzolana
cement ( second rcuirion i.

.IS : 2250 - 1981

IS : 3466-1967*
4.2

or IS : 8041-1978t

or IS : 8043-1978:

and IS : 8112-19769.

Fine Aggregate
4.2.1 Sand -

shall conform

to IS : 2116-l 98Ojl.

4.2.2 Burnt-clay,
fly ash and cinder
IS: 3182-19751,
IS : 3812 ( Part III)-1966**
4.3 Lime

shall conform

aggregate
shall conform
and IS : 2686-1977tf.

to

to IS : 712-1973$$.

4.3.1 Hydraulic
and semihydraulic
limes corresponding
to class A, B
and E of IS : 712-1973::
are eminently suitable for use in masonry
mortars,
whereas
fat limes corresponding
to class C and D will require
mixing
of burnt clay pozzolana or other pozzolanic
materials.
Class
C and D limes may also be used with addition of cement and pozzolanic
materials.
4.3.2 Class A lime of IS : 712-1973::
shall be supplied as hydrated lime
Class B, C, D and E lime as specified in IS : 712-1973::
shall be
alone.
Quick lime shall never
supplied both as quick lime and hydrated lime.
Slaking at
be used for structural
purpose.
It must be slacked first.
site of work shall be done in accordance
with IS : 1635-1975&
NOTE - The quality and characteristics of lime are considerably influenced by
Also, inadequately
the method of slaking in addition to the chemical composition.
slaked particles of lime will continue to hydrate after the lime is used in the mortar
and consequently lead to defects, such as popping, blowing, crack development,
etc.

4.4 Lime

Pozzolaha

Mixture

shall conform

to IS : 4098-19671111.

*Specification for masonry cement (/;rst r&&n ).

tSpecification for rapid hardening Portland cement (jirst reuision).
$Specification for hydrophobic Portland cement (jr& revision).
Specification for high strength ordinary Portland cement.
l/Specification for sand for masonry mortars (Jirst reviFLm).
7JSpecification for broken brick ( burnt clay) fine aggregate for use in lime mortar
( jirstr&ion ) .
**Specification
for fly ash: Part III For use as fine aggregate for mortar and
concrete.
ttSpecification for cinder aggregates for use in lime concrete (JirJt revision).
$tSpecification for building limes ( second reuision).
$$Code of practice for field slacking of building lime and preparation of putty
(first revision) .
l!JSpecification for lime-pozzolana mixture.

IS : 2250 - 1981
4.5 Pozzolana
4.5.1

Burnt Clay Pozzolana

4.5.2

&

Ash -

shall conform

shall conform

to IS:

1344-1968*.

to IS : 3812 ( Part I )-19667.

shall be clean
4.6 Water - Water used for making masonry mortars
and free from injurious quantities of deleterious materials.
Potable water
is generally
considered
satisfactory
for use in masonry
mortar.
For
further requirements
regarding
limits of deleterious
materials
permitted
reference may be made to IS : 456-1978:.
4.7 Storage of Materials
with IS : 4082-19779.
5. DESIGN

Storage

of materials

shall Be in accordance

CONSIDERATIONS

5.1 Durability
5.1.1 The
factors:

durability

of masonry

mortars

depends

upon the following

a) Volumetric
changes during the process of setting, hardening, and
later due to temperature
variations
or due to moisture
movements in the surroundings,
and the extent to which the mortar
will internally
accommodate
the stresses induced
by these
volumetric
changes before yielding;
b) The nature
fine cracks
cracks;

and distribution
well-distributed

of the resulting cracks, whether as

throughout
or
large
localized

c) The extent to which the bond between the mortar

and the
masonry units is ruptured by volumetric changes and structural
movements resulting not only in reduction in strength of masonry
but also in provision of channels of seepage for water and other
solution into the masonry which would further
the process of
deterioration;
and
d) Resistance

to chemical

attack

in aggressive

environment.

Specification for burnt clay pozzolana

(jrst re:~irion ).
@pecification
for fly ash: Part I For use as pozzolana.
SCode of practice
for plain and reinforced
concrete
( third rmision).
SRecommendations
on stacking
and storage
of construction
materials
( /id reoision) .
8

at

site

IS:2250

-1981

5.1.2 All mortars are likely to deteriorate to a greater or lesser extent

under prolonged exposure to the environment.
The rate of deterioration
depends not only upon the composition
of the mar-tar, but also upon
thorough,
uniform and intimate mixing and the workmanship
in laying
the masonry.
5.1.3

E$ect

of

Volume Change

5.1.3.1 In the early stages,

when mortar
is green,
temperature
fluctuations
and variations
in moisture content
cause volume changes
that are detrimental
to a masonry mortar in course of time. Generally,
the effect of temperature
fluctuations
is negligible
compared
to that of
moisture variation.
If there is excessive volume change due to alternate
wetting and drying, the bond between the mortar and the masonry is
liable to be destroyed, causing cracks to appear in the hard set mortar.
5.1.3.2 Since lime mortars undergo only negligible
volume change
after setting and initial shrinkage
and the hardening
of the mortar is
also a slow process, the mortar is able to retain its bond with the masonry
unit and be free from cracks.
5.1.3.3 Lime mortars are also able to take normal movements
in
masonry
mortar
caused
by volume
changes
by virtue
of internal
accommodation;
in this process it will undergo elastic or creep deformations
and may recover fully or partly.
The extensibility
of masonry mortar,
which indicates its capacity for internal accommodation,
ranges from 2
to
3 x 10-4.
This
is generally
larger
than
the volume
change
( maximum
shrinkage)
that normally
occurs
in lime mortars
on
hardening.
Because of the accommodation
of the mortar,
the stresses
that develop due to various deformations,
such as expansion,
contraction
and deflection,
will get distributed
in the mortar and their intensities
will be low.
5.1.4 Resistance to Sulphate
to this trouble will be:

The

Attack -

sources

a) in exceptional
circumstances,
sulphate
constituting
the masonry unit;

of sulphate

derived

giving rise

from

the

brick

b) sulphate contained
in the sand or fine aggregate
use-l in the
mortar where sulphate content in these has to be allowed high
from economic consideration;
and
c) sulphate

from soil in the case of masonry

in contact

with soil.

5.1.4.1 The cement in the mortar will undergo

expansive
reaction
in the presence
of sulphate,
which will lead to cracks in the mortar.
Where
serious sulphate
attack is expected,
Portland
slag cement, or
9

---.-..__

IS:2250

- 1981

Portland pozzolana cement may preferably

be used instead of ordinary
Portland cement.
Other general precautions to be taken against sulphate
attack in masonry
design as well as workmanship
are covered
in
IS: 2212-1962*.
5.2 Hardening
of Mortar-A
masonry
mortar
should
harden
at
such a rate that it causes no delay in the progress of work, but at the
same time it is able to retain its plastic properties for a sufficient interval
This will minimize
till the initial shrinkage of the mortor is complete.
the danger of cracks and opening of joints in masonry.
The rate of
hardening
of lime mortars is slower than that of cement mortars, but is
satisfactory
for most of the normal building works, except where high
strength is required.
5.3

Strength

Development

5.3.1 Strength
development
is an, important
requirement
before
masonry is loaded to the full extent, and the rate of construction should
synchronize&th
the development of the strength on masonry, particularly
in the case of masonry with weak mortars,
Extra time shall be allowed
for hardening
of mortar
when the atmospheric
temperature
during
construction is very low ( minimum 5% in 24 h ). The period will have
to be increased by 100 percent for the time during which the temperature
remains below 5C and by 50 percent for the time when temperature
is
between 5 and 10C.
5.3.2 The strength of lime mortars is dependent on the class of lime
(see
IS: 712-1973t)
and
other
constituents
used
in the
mortar
(see Table 1 ). Incorporation
of cement and/or pozzolana in lime mortar
mixes made with Class B and Class E lime will increase the strength and
rate
of hardening
of the
mortars
without
appreciably
reducing
workability.
5.4 Qpantity
of Water-The
quantity of water to be added to the
mortar shall be such that the working consistency (see 2.1 ) is obtained.
Excess water shall be avoided.
6. GRADE

OF MORTAR

6.1 Masonry mortars shall preferably

be specified by the grade in terms
of their minimum
compressive
strength as given in Table 1. Masonry
mortars in terms of mix proportion which gives the range of compressive
strength
( at the age of 28 days ) values are also given in Table 1 for
guidance.
NOTE - The compressive strength
of mortar shall be determined
in accordance
with the procedure

given in Appendix

*Code of practice
for brickwork.
+Specification
for building
limes

A.

(second r&ion

10

j.

IS:2250

TABLE

GRADE

OF MASONRY

- 1981

MORTARS

(Clauses 0.3.1, 5.3.2 and 6.1 )

SL
No

(1)

GRADE

(2)

MORTAR MIX ( BY LOOSE VOLU~ME)

~-__-_._--__-_h-_----_-_--7
Pozzolana
kkment Lime
Lime
Sand
Pozzolana
Mixture
(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

C~MPRESJIVE
STRENGTHAT
28 DAYS

(7)

(8)
N/mm

1RorE

lC0rD

3CorD

MM 0.5

MM 0.7

( .;-7

(LF$)

05 to 0.7

1.5

2.25

12

0.4

10

11

MM 1.5

1.25 I

( LG-20 )

( ,.;-20

0.7 to 15
I

810
)

1.25 1
2

1
I
:
1

( Lpd40 )

12

0.4

7
8.75

13

1A

1A

15

1CorD

2
0

16

2C or D

1
i

17

18

14

MM2

( LPI-20 )
( Llh

15 to2

2to3

1
l-75 J
( Continued)

1s :2250- 1981
TABLE

No

(1)

GRADE

OF MASONRY

MQRTAR

GRAPE
--

Cement

(3)

(2)

Lime

MORTARS

MIX (BY LOOSE Vo~unm)

h__________~
Lime
Pozzolana
Pozzolana
Mixture

(4)

(5)

-. Contd
COIRPRESSI~E

STRENGTH
AT
28 DAYS

Sand

(6)

(7;

(8)
N/mm2

1CorD

1CorD

0
0

*O
0

21

rl

22

If1

23

1t

0.21

.4.2

24

MM3

19
20

0.4

26

MM3

27

MM5

25

28

0 to f E, c,
D or E
0

29

30

04

&Cor

33

34

( 1.$4

31
MM

32

7.5

3 to j

1
( +o
I
/
7.5 /
a
12
j
CL?-20 1 I
J
I.5

-j

0.4

.O

;tC0rD

3
4.5

1
1

5t07.5

625

35

1t

o-2*

0
0

1 7.5 and abdvc~

36

I
1

0.4

3.75

37
MM

.38

7.5

8
( Lp1-20 )

NOTE 1 -

A, B, C, D and E denote
the classses
of limes
to be used [see
Specification
for building
lime ( revised) 1.
NOTE 2-The
strength
values of lime mortars
given in the table are after wet
grinding
of the mortar ingredients.
NATE 3 - The cofnpressive
strength
shall be determined
in accordance
with the
procedure
given in Appendix
A.
IS

: 712-1973

*Pozzolana
ofminimum
lime reactivity
of 4 N/mm*.
tThis
ratio by voltime
corrospondes
approximately
to cement
pozzolana
ratio
of 0.8 : 0.2. bv weight.
In this case, only ordinary
Portland
cement
is to be used
[see IS,: 269-1976
Specification
for ordinary
rapid hardening
and low heat Portland
cement ( third r&ion ) 1.

12

IS :~2250 - 1981
7. CRITERIA

FOR SELECTION

OF MASONRY

MORTARS

7.1 The selection of masonry mortars from durability considerations

will have to cover both the loading and exposure conditions of the
masonry.
The requirements for masonry mortar shall generally be as
specified in 7.1.1 to 7.1.6 (see also Table 1 ).
.
7.1.1 In the case of masonry exposed frequently to rains and where
there is further protection by way of plastering or rendering or other
finishes, the grade of mortar shall not be less than MM 0.7 but shall
preferably be of grade MM 2. Where no protection is provided, the
grade of mortar for external walls shall riot be less than MM 2.
7.1.2 In the case of load bearing internal walls, the grade of mortar
shall preferably be MM 0.7 or more for high durability but in no case
less than MM O-5.
7.1.3 In the case of masonry in foundations laid below damp-proof
course, the grades of morter for use in masonry shall be as specified
below:
a) Where soil has little moisture,
less than MM 0.7 shall be used;

masonry

mortar of grade not

b) Where soil is very damp, masonry mortar of grade preferably

MM 2 or more shall be used. But in no case shall the grade
of mortar be less than MM 07; and
c) Where soil is saturated with water, masonry mortar of grade
MM 3 shall be used but in no case shall the grade of mortar
be less than MM 2.
7.1.4 For masonry in buildings subject to vibration of machinery, the
grade of mortar shall not be less than MM 3.
7.1.5 For parapets, where the height is greater than thrice the
thickness, the grade of masonry mortar used shall not be less than MM 3.
In the case of low parapets, the grade of mortar shall be the same as
used in the wall masonry below..
7.1.6 The grade of mortar for bedding joints in masonry with large
concrete blocks shall not be less than MM 3.
8. PREPARATION

OF MASONRY

MORTARS

8.1 Proportioning
- Cement shall be proportioned only by full bags.
Hydrated lime, pozzolana and, aggregates shall be measured by volume
using gauge boxes of suitable capacity.
13

IS : 2250 - 1981
8.1.1 The quantities
of some of the ingredients for measurement
may
The unit weight of some
also be taken on the basis of the unit weight.
of the materials
in loosely placed condition are given in Table 2 for
conversion from weight to volume.

TABLE

UNIT

WEIGHT

OF MATERIALS
CONDITION

MATERIAL

SL
No.

Sand ( dry )

ii)

Lime-pozzolana
mixture

iii)

iv)

PLACED

UNIT WEIGHT
g/m?

Variable

( seeNote )
700 to 840

Pozzolana:
a)

Burnt-clay
pozzolana

775 to 945

b)

Fly ash

570 to 600

hydrated
Dry
lime

NOTE 1 -Loosely
placed condition
in the container loosely, that is, without
NOTE 2 -The
measurement.

IN LOOSELY

630 to 770
is achieved by pouring or filling the material
giving any jerk to the container.

unit weight of dry and loose sand shall be found by actual

field

shall
be done
8.2 Preparation
of Cement
Mortar - Mixing
preferably in a mechanical
mixer. If done by hand, the operation shall be
Cement and sand shall be
carried out on a clean watertight
platform.
The
mixed dry in the required proportions to obtain a uniform colour.
required
quantity of water shall then be added and the mortar mixed to
In the case of mechanical
mixing, the
produce a workable consistency.
mortar shall be mixed for at least three minutes after addition of water;
in the case of hand mixing, the mortar shall be hold back and forth for
5 to 10 minutes with addition of water.
8.2.1 Generally,
only
sufficient for 30 minutes,

as much quantity of cement mortar

work shall be mixed at a time.
14

as would be

IS : 2250 - 1981
8.3 Preparation

of Lime

Mortar

8.3.1 Slaking of Lime - If lime is supplied in the form of quick

it shall be slaked and run into putty, if necessary,
in accordance
IS : 1635-1975*.

lime,
with

8.3.2 Mixing of Lime Mortars

8.3.2.1 Putty and sand in the specified proportions
shall be mixed
with or without addition of water on a dry waterproof platform or in a
mixer.
The mix shall then be fed into a mortar mill with the required
The mortar
shall be raked
continuously
during
addition
of water.
grinding, particularly
in the angular edges of the mortar mill.
Water
may be added during grinding as required,
but care shall be takennot
to add more water than to bring the material to the working consistency.
The mixing shall be done till every particle of the aggregate
is coated
uniformly with the cementitious material.
NOTE -

Grinding of lime mortars shall be done, if necessary.

8.3.2.2 Dry hydrated lime and sand in specified proportions shall be

mixed dry first and shall then be fed into a mortar mill with required
mixing
shall
be done
in
accordance
additions
of water.
The
with 8.3.2.1.

NOTE- When factory made dry hydrated lime conforming fo IS

used, grinding of the lime and sand in the mortar mill is not necessary.

: 712-19731 is

8.3.3 Generally,
only as much
quantity
of lime
mortar
( except
made with Class A lime ) as would be sufficient for days work shall be
If eminently hydraulic lime ( Class A ) is present as an
mixed at a time.
ingredient, the mortar shall be used within 4 hours after grinding.
8.4

Preparation

of Composite

Mortar

8.4.1 Where coarse sand is used, the lime putty and sand in the
mixing
tin a watertight
required
proportions
shall, after preliminary
platform,
with necessary addition of water, be ground in a mortar mill
taking care to rake up continuously the mortar particularly at the corners,
and also adding water as and when required during grinding.
This mix
shall then be transferred
to a mechanical
mixer to which the required
quantity of cement is added and the content mixed for at least three
minutes.
*Code of practice
for field slaking of building
(Jirst revision) .
tspecificatinn
for building limes ( secondreuision ).

15

lime

and preparation

of

putty

IS:2250-1981
8.4.2Where fine sand is used, the mixing operations shall be done in
the same manner as in 8.4.1, except that grinding may be omitted for the
preliminary
mixing of lime putty and sand.
NOTE- When
used, grinding

factory
made dry hydrated
lime conforming
to IS
of lime and sand in the mortar mill is not necessary.

8.4.3If the mixture

for mixing with cement,
time of use.

: 712-1973*

is

of lime putty and sand is not used immediately

it shall be kept protected from drying out till the

8.4.4 When adding water in the mortar during mixing

shall be ensured that it is added only to the extent necessary
working consistency for the mortar and not more.

operations, it
for obtaining

8.4.5 Where pozzolana is used in the mortar, the pozzolana shall first
be mixed with the lime in the specified proportions
and ground in a
mortar
mill with the addition
of required
quantity
of water.
Sand
shall then be added to the mix and mixing and grinding repeated till
every aggregate
particle
gets coated uniformly
with the cementitious
material.
Mixing after addition of cement shall be done in the same
manner as described in 8.4.1 in a mechanical
mixer.
8.4.6 Generally,
only as much quantity of composite
be sufficient for 4 hours, work shall be mixed at a time.
8.5 Preparation
of Mortars
Mortars
using lime-pozzolana
manner as described in 8.2.

mortar

as would

Using
Lime-PoLzolana
Mixtures
mixtures shall be prepared in the same

8.5.1Mortars with lime-pozzolana

mixture of type LP 20 and LP 40
as binder shall be used within 4 hours from the time of mixing of the
mortar, whereas mortars which have hydraulic lime ( Class B ) or fatlime
( Class C ) and pozzolana
or lime-pozzola.na
mixture of type LP 7 as
ingredients,
but do not have
either Portland
cement or eminently
hydraulic
lime ( Class A ) shall be used within 12 to 24 hours from the
time of mixing of the mortar.
8.6 Retempering

of Mortars

8.6.1 In the case of mortar using cement, the mortar that has stiffened
because of evaporation of water from the mortar may be re-tempered
by
adding
water as frequently
as needed to restore the requirements
of
consistency.
But this re-tempering
shall be permitted
only within tj0
minutes from the time of addition of cement.
*Specification

for huilding

limes

( second reoision ).

16

IS : 2250 - 1981
9. CONSISTENCY

OF MASONRY

MORTARS

9.1 The working

consistency of the mortar is usually judged by the worker

during application.
The water should be enough
to maintain
the
fluidity of the mortar during application,
but at the same time it shall
not be excessive leading to segregation
of aggregates from the cementimaterial.
The
quantity
of
water
tious
needed
for
maintaining
consistency or fluidity will also depend upon the masonry to which the
mortar is used; for example,
thinner joints will require greater fluidity;
bed joints subject to heavy pressure may require stiffer mortar.
Also, the
mortar should be able to hold the water against suction by the masonry
unit, particularly
in the case of burnt clay and concrete products.

9.1.1 The consistency of mortars shall be measured in accordance

with
the procedure
given in Appendix B and the following values of depth of
penetration
are recommended.
For laying

walls with solid bricks

For laying perforated

bricks

90 to 130 mm
70 to

For filling cavities

80 mm

130 to 150 mm

9.2 Water
Retentivity
--Measurement
of water retentivity
may be
necessary only in the case where mortar is to be used with masonry unit
which has got high suction characteristics.
Water retentivity
shall be
determined
as described in Appendix C and the flow after suction in the
test shall not be less than 70 percent of the flow before suction.

10. SAMPLING

OF FRESHLY

10.1 Apparatus

The following

MIXED
apparatus

MASONRY

MORTARS

is required:

a) According
to the method being used, either a metal receptacle
ofnot less than 1 litre capacity or a scoop; and
b) Airtight

containers.

10.2 Procedure
- Samples
shall be obtained
by taking
uniformly
distributed
increments
( preferably
from material
in motion, provided
this can be carried
out in safety ), and mixed to form a thoroughly
combined bulk sample.
The number of increments and the size of bulk
sample necessary will depend upon the quality of the material
and its
variability and the accuracy of the test results required.
mortar shall be sampled at the discharge
10.2.1 Batch Mixes -The
point of a batch from the mixer.
Not less than three increments shall
be taken at about the times when one-quarter,
one-half
and threequarters of the batch have been discharged.
The increments
shall be

17

IS :2250 - 1981
taken by passing the dry, clean, metal receptacle
mortar in such a manner as to coliect a thoroughly
of mortar.

across the stream of

representative
sample

18.2.2 Hand Mixes - The mortar shall be turned over with clean, dry
shovel and samples taken by means of the scoop at regular spacings
throughout the mass.
10.2.3 Heaps - In the case of heaps, the increments shall be taken from
material
well below the surface in at least twelve different places in the
mass, distributed
in a regular manner, so as to ensure, when mixed,
a thoroughly representative
combined sample.
10.2.4 Reduction of Bulk Sample - The increments or sub-samples taken
in accordance
with any of the methods described above shall immediately
be combined
and thoroughly
mixed and reduced to a sample of not less
than 10 kg and placed in one or more airtight containers.
NOTE- If consistency test is to be made on a sample, arrangements shall be
made to carry out the tests at the point of sampling.
10.3 Particulars
of Sample
recorded and the sample container

The
following
particulars
marked accordingly:

a) The date,
b) Place and method of sampling, and
c) The date of preparation
and the
consignment.

quantity

APPENDIX

of

the

shall

be

batch

or

( Clauses 2.4, 6.1, and Table 1 )

DETERMINATION

OF COMPRESSIVE
MASONRY
MORTAR

STRENGTH

OF

A-l. OBJECT
A-l.1
A-2.

To determine

the compressive

strength

of the masonry

mortars.

APPARATUS

A-2.1 Scales - The scales used in weighing

shall conform to the following requirements:

materials

for mortar

mixes

On scales in use, the permissible

variation at a load of 2 000 g
shall be & 2.0 g. The permissible
variation on new scales shall be
one-half of this value.
The
sensibility
reciprocal
shall be not
greater than twice the permissible variation.
18

IS t 2250 - 1981
A-2.2 Specimen
and Moulds - The test specimens shall be cubes of
size 50 mm and shall conform to the requirements
given in A-2.2.1.
A-2.2.1
Cube Moulds - The moulds for the 50 mm cube specimen shall
cement-pozzolana
mixture or limebe metal not attacked
by cement,
pozzolana mixture and there shall be sufficient strength and stiffness to
The moulds shall be rigidly constructed
prevent spreading and warping.
in such a manner
as to facilitate
the removal of the moulded specimen
without damage.
The moulds shall be machined so that when assembled
ready for use, the dimensions and internal faces shall be accurate to the
following limits:
The height of the mould and the distance between
the opposite
The angle between adjacent interior
faces shall be 50 f O-1 mm.
faces and between interior faces and top and bottom planes of the
The interior faces of the moulds
mould shall be 90 f 0.5 degrees.
shall be plane surfaces with a permissible
variation
of 0.03 mm.
Each mould shall be provided with a base plate having a plane
surface machined
to a tolerance
O-10 mm and
made of nonabsorbent,
non-corridible
and non-reactive
material.
The
base
plate shall be of such dimensions
as to support the mould during
the filling without leakage.
The parts of the mould when assembled shall be positively held
together,
and suitable methods
of ensuring this, both during the
filling and on subsequent
removal
of the filled mould, shall be
provided in order to prevent the moulded specimen from damage.
- The mixing apparatus
A-2.3 Mixing Apparatus
requirements
specified in A-2.3.1 and A-2.3.2.
A-2.3.1, Mixer - The mixer shall be an electrically
mixer which shall consist essentially of the following:

shall conform
driven

to the

mechanical

a) A stainless steel mixing bowl with a nominal capacity of 5 litres

of the shape and dimensions as shown in Fig. 1 and provided
with rneans by which it can be securely fixed to the mixing frame
during mixing, and
b) A mixer blade of the form and dimensions shown in Fig. 2
revolving about its axis as it is driven in a planetary movement
around the bowl by an electric motor.
A-2.3.1.1
The two
speed of rotation during
a) Blade

revolving

b) Planetary
NOTE

material

directions
of rotation
shall
mixing shall be as follows:
about

its own axis

be opposite.
140 f

The

5 rev/min

62 f. 5 rev/min

movement

- The above bowl and blade shall be used when the mass of the solid
including putty is between 3 and 4.5 kg.

19

IS : 2250 - 1981

3 R-

--200

I
1

__ ____

f3

-_---_-_--e-m

DIA
_______________________

r-.-__==:===3c,
+---_

r-__

==r-pf

4
1

t=- z_-;

-BACK BOWL
PIN ASSY

All dimensions

FIG. 1

,& SIDE
:

in millimetres.

MIXING BOWL

20

HANDLE

IS : 2250 - 1981

All dimensions

FIG. 2

in millimetres.

PADDLE

21

IS : 2250 - 1981
A-2.3.2

A plastic scraper.

A-2.4Tamping

Rod-

A-2.5 Trowel -This

with straight edges.
A-2.6

Flow Table -

A-3. PREPARATION

A metal bar 25 mm square and 200 mm long.

shall have a steel blade 100 to 150 mm in length
The flow table shall be as given in IS : 5512-1969*.
OF MOULDS

A-3.1 The interior faces of the specimen moulds shall be thinly covered
After the moulds are assembled,
with mineral oil or light cup grease.
excessive oil or grease shall be removed from the interior faces and the
Moulds shall then be set on
top and bottom surfaces of each mould.
plane, non-absorbent non-corrodible
and non-reactive base plates that
have been thinly coated with mineral oil, petralatum, or light cup
grease.
A-4. PREPARATION

OF MORTAR

A-4.1 The mortar shall be of the materials and proportions intended for
use in the construction mixed to give a flow of 110 to 115. The mixing
procedure for sample made in the laboratory
shall be as given
in A-4.2.1.
A-4.1.1 Trial Mixing - Trial mortars shall be made with specified
proportion of dry ingredients and adding different percentages of water
wtil the specified flow is obtained.
Each trial shall be made with fresh
mixing shall be done mechanically
as described
mortars,
The
in A-4.1.1.1 to A-4.1.1.5.
A-4.1.1.1 The mixing of the ingredients
temperature of 27 & 2C and all ingredients
brought to the same temperature.

shall be carried out at a

before mixing shall be

A-4.1.1.2 The dry ingredients shall then be placed in the mixing

bowl and mixed for 30 seconds. Over the next 30 seconds, while mixing,
water shall be poured at a uniform rate into the bowl and the mixing
shall be continued for 60 seconds.
A-4.1.1.3 The mixer shall then be stopped and the paddle and sides
of the bowl shall be cleaned down in about 15 seconds with the plastic
scraper.
The bowl shall be covered with a damp cloth and the mortar
be allowed to stand for a period of 10 minutes.
*Specification for

materials.

flow

table for use in tests of hydraulic

22

cements and pozzolanic

IS:2250
A-4.1.1.4

The mortar

shall then be remixed

- 1981

for 60 seconds.

A-4.1.1.5
When using lime putty, the procedure shall be as described
above, except that the sand and lime putty shall be premixed by hand
or in the mixer until the lime appears to be uniformly distributed.
A-4.2 Remixing
of Mortars
in the Laboratory
- Samples of mortar
received in the laboratory
for testing shall be examined for any leakage or
evaporation
and segregation or bleeding of the liquid.
The whole of the
sample, with any liquid which has separated or has condensed inside the
shall
be transferred
as completely
as possible
to an
container,
impermeable
working
surface
and remixed,
using a trowel, until it
appears homogeneous.
A-4.2.1 The top of the flow table shall be carefully
wiped clean,
dried and the flow mould shall be placed at the centre.
A layer of
mortar about 25 mm in thickness and mixed in accordance
with A-4.1.1
shall be placed in the mould and tamped 20 times with the tamping rod.
The tamping pressure shall be just sufficient to ensure uniform filling of
the mould.
The mould shall then be filled to overflow
with mortar
The mortar shall be cut off
and tamped, as specified for the first layer.
plane and level with the top of the mould by drawing the straight edge
of a trowel ( held perpendicular
to the mould)
with a sawing motion
across the top of the mould.
The top of the table shall be wiped clean
and dried, taking care to remove any water from around the edge of the
The mould shall then be lifted away from the mortar and
flow mould.
the flow table shall be immediately
dropped through a height of 12.5 mm,
25 times in 15 seconds.
The flow is the resulting increase in average
base diameter of the mortar mass, measured on at least four diameters
at approximately
equispaced
intervals expressed as a percentage
of the
original base diameter.
A-5.

TEST

SPECIMENS

A-5.1 Cubes -The

mould as prepared under A-3.1 shall be filled with
the mortar to about half height and the layer compacted
by tamping it
with the tamping rod ( see A-2.4 ) in a uniform manner over the mortar
surface in such a way as to produce full compaction
of the mortar with
The mould shall then be
neither segregation
nor excessive
laitance.
completely
filled and the upper layer of the mortar compacted
in a
similar manner, after which the surface of the mortar shall be struck off
plane and level with the top of the mould, using a trowel ( see A-2.5 ).
A-5.2 Curing and Storage of Test Specimens - The specimens shall
be stored at a place free from vibration, either in moist air at a temperature
of 27 f 2C and relative humidity of not less than 90 percent or under
damp
sacks,
matting
or other
suitable
damp
material
covered
23

IS : 2250 - 1981
completely
with polyethylene
or other similar imprevious sheeting, at a
temperature
of 27 f 2C for 1 to 3 days, depending
on the early
strength of the mortar, from the time of adding the water to the other
The specimen shall then be marked for later identifications,
ingredients.
removed from the moulds and stored in clean water until the time of test.
The temperature
of the storage water shall be 27 f 2C.
NOTE temperature

Lime mortar
cubes may,
of 27 & 2C for the entire

however,
be stored
curing period.

in the laboratory

air at a

A-5.2.1 When cubes are made at site, records of the maximum and
minimum
air and water storage temperature
shall be kept during the
period,
using maximum
and minimum
thermometers
or continuous
The cubes shall be sent to the testing laboratory
recording
instruments.
when they are not less than 3 days nor more than 7 days old, well
packed in damp sand or in wet sacks, and when necessary enclosed in
polyethylene bag or sealed container, SO that they arrive at the laboratory
in a damp condition
not less than 24 h before the time of test.
On
arrival at the testing laboratory, the cubes shall be stored in clean water
maintained
at a temperature
of 27 f 2C until the time of test.
A-5.3
made
A-6.

Number
of Specimens
- Three
for each period of test specified.

or

more

specimens

shall

be

PROCEDURE

A-6.1 The specimen shall be tested immediately

on removal from the
curing water in which it has been stored and while it is still in a wet
condition.
Any loose material shall be removed from the sides of the
specimen.
The dimensions of the specimen shall be noted before testing.
The bearing surfaces of the testing machine shall be wiped clean and the
specimen shall be placed in the machine in such a manner that the load
shall be applied to opposite sides of the cube as cast, that is, not to the
top and bottom.
A-6.2 The axis of the cube shall be carefully aligned with the centre of
No packing other than
thrust of steel plates bearing the testing machine.
auxiliary steel plates shall be used between the faces of the specimen and
steel platens of the testing machine.
A-6.3 The load on the specimen shall be applied without shock and
uniform rate of 2N/mm2 to 6N/mm* per minute until failure occurs.
A-6.4

The maximum

load at failure
24

shall be noted.

at a

IS: 2250 -1981

A-7. CALCULATION
A-7.1 The compressive strength shall be calculated as follows:
ComPressive strength (N/mm) =
A-7.1.1 The
0.05 N/mm2.

individual

Maximum load at failure (N)

Cross-sectional area ( mm2 )

results shall be

calculated

to the

nearest

A-8. REPORT
A-8.1 The average of all the determinations shall be reported.

APPENDIX

(Clause 9.1.1 )
DETERMINATION

OF CONSISTENCY
MORTAR

OF MASONRY

B-l. OBJECT
B-l.1

To determine the consistency of masonry mortar.

B-2. APPARATUS
B-2.1 This shall consist of a standard cone weighing 300 f 2 g, 150 mm
in height, and a diameter at a base of 75 mm. The cone is mounted on
a vertical shaft fastened to an adjustable holder.
The holder has a
mechanism which releases the shaft. The apparatus has also an
instrument dial which records the depth of penetration of the cone into
the mortar mix kept in a conical container below.
B-2.1.1 The conical container for mortar shall be 180 mm deep with a
diameter at top of 150 mm.
B-2.2 Flow

Table

This shall be as given in IS : 5512-1969*.

B-3. PROCEDURE
B-3.1 The conical container shall be filled with mortar mix -to a level
that is 1 cm below its rim. Mortar mix shall be placed in a conical
mould in one continuous operation and shall be compacted by tamping
*Specification for flow table for use in tests of hydraulic cements and pozzolanic

materials.

25

IS : 2250 - 1981
rod as given in A-2.4.
The mould filled with mortar mix is bumped 5
or 6 times over a flow table so as to level the surface of the mortar.
The
container shall be placed over the base below the penetration cone of the
apparatus,
as shown in Fig. 3. The apex of the penetrating
cone shall
be brought
first in contact with the surface of the mortar and the cone
clamped in position.
The instrument
dial is set to be in contact with a
cone at this position.
The cone is then released and allowed to sink into
the mortar mix.
After the cone has stopped penetrating into the mortar,
the dial is once more set to record the position of the cone and the
difference
between dial readings before and after penetration
gives the
depth of penetration
of the cone into the mortar.
B-3.1.1
B-4.

The

on another

sample

of the mortar.

REPORT

B-4.1 The
consistency
B-5.

test shall be repeated

average
of the two determinations
of the mortar.

FIELD

shall

be reported

as the

TEST

B-5.1 For quick field determination,

the procedure
may be further
simplified.
The
shaft
of the cone shall
be held
by hand
in a
perpendicular
position so as to be in contact with the surface of the mortar
and gently released to sink into the mortar taking care that the shaft
remains vertical during penetration.
The depth of penetration may be
computed
from the measurement
of the wetted depth along the surface
of the cone.

APPENDIX
( Clnuses 2.8 and
DETERMINATION

C-l.

9.3 )

OF WATER
RETENTIVITY
MASONRY
MORTAR

OF

OBJECT

C-L.1 TO determine
mortar.
C-2.

the

water

retentivity

characteristics

of

masonry

APPARATUS

C-2.1 Apparatus
Asseebly
for the Water
Retention
Test - For
the retention test, an apparatus essentially the same as that shown in Fig. 4
shall be used.
This apparatus
consists of a water
aspirator
or other
26

IS :2250 - 1981

DIAL

GAUGE

ROD

INSTRUMENT

ADJUSTABLE

DIAL

HOLDER

PENETRATING

CONICAL
CONTAINER

FIG.

STANDARD

C.ONE

27

APPARATUS

p-

---

.l_l.__ _._.

IS :2250 - 1981

1.1 TO 1.6 $ HOLES

--LB

HOLES

-42

HOLES

-36

HOLES

FILTER PAPER

All dimensions

FIG. 4

APPARATUS

in millimetres.

ASSEMBLY

FORWATERRETENTION
TEST

2%

IS : 2250- 1981
source of vacuum controlled
by a mercury column relief and connected
by way of a three-way stopcock to a funnel upon which rests a perforated
dish.
The perforated
dish shall be made of metal not attacked
by
masonry
mortars.
The metal in the base of the dish shall have a
thickness of 1.7 to 1.9 mm and shall conform
to the outline shown
Fig. 4. The bore of the stopcock shall have 4 mm diameter,
and the
connecting
glass tubing shall have a minimum inside diameter of 4 mm.
A mercury
manometer,
connected
as shown in Fig. 4, indicates
the
A synthetic rubber gasket shall be permanently
sealed to the
vaccum.
top ,of the funnel and shall be lightly coated with petrolatum or light cup
grease during the test to ensure a seal between the funnel and the dish.
Care shall be taken to ensure that none of the holes in the perforated
dish is clogged from the grease used on the rubber gasket.
Hardened
filter paper of a grade equivalent to Carl Schieicher & Schuell filter paper
No. 576 or to Whatman No. 50 filter paper shall be used.
It shall be of
such diameter
that is will lie flat and completely
cover the bottom of
the dish.
edge should be not less than
C-2.2 Straight Edge - Steel straight
200 mm long, and not less than 1.5 mm nor more than 3 mm in thickness.
C-2.3 Other, ,Apparatus - Other apparatus
retention test shall conform to the requirements

required
for the water
specified in Appendix A.

C-3. PROCEDURE
C-3.1 Adjust the mercury relief column so as to maintain a vacuum of
5 cm as measured on the manometer.
Seat the perforated dish on the
Place a wetted filter paper in the bottom
greased gasket of the funnel.
of the dish. ,Turn the stopcock to apply the vacuum to the funnel and
check the apparatus for leaks and to determine that the required suction
Then turn the stopcock to shut off the vacuum from the
is obtained.
funnel.
C-3.2 Mix the mortar to a consistency to give a flow of 110 to 115 (see
on
3,l ). Immediately
after makin, m the flow test return the mortar
the flow table to the mixing bowl and remix the entire batch for 15
Immediately
after remixing of the mortar, fill
seconds at medium speed.
the perforated
dish with the mortar to slightly above the rim. Tamp the
Ten of the temping strokes shad1 be
mortar 15 times with the tamper.
applied at approximately
uniform spacing adjacent to the rim of the dish
an d with the long axis of the tamping face held at right angles to the
radius of the dish.
The remaining five tamping strokes shall be applied
at random
points distributed
over the central area of the dish.
The
On
tamping pressure shall be just sufficient to ensure filling of the dish.
completion of tamping, the top of the mortar should extend slightly above
29

IS:2250

- 1981

the rim of the dish. Smooth off the mortar by drawing the flat side of
the straight edge ( with the leading edge slightly raised ) across the top of
the dish. Then cut off the mortar to a plane surface flush with the rim
of the dish by drawing the straight edge with a sawing motion across the
top of the dish in two cutting strokes, starting each cut from near the
centre of the dish. If the mortar is pulled away from the side of the
dish during the process of drawing the straight edge across the dish,
gently press the mortar back into contact with the side of the dish using
the tamper.
C-3.3 Turn the stopcock to apply the vacuum to the funnel. The time
elapsed from the start of mixing the cement and water to the time of
applying the vaccum shall not exceed 8 minutes. After suction for 60
seconds quickly turn the stopcock to expose the funnel to atmospheric
slide the perforated dish off from the funnel,
pressure. Immediately
touch it momentarily on a damp cloth to remove droplets of water and
set the dish on the table.
Then, using the bowl scraper, flow and mix
the mortar in the dish for 15 seconds. Upon campletion of mixing,
place the mortar in the flow mould and determine the flow. The entire
operation shall be carried out without interruption and as quickly as
possible, and shall be completed within an elapsed time of 11 minutes
after the start of mixing the cement and water for the first flow
determination.
C-4. CALCULATION
C-4.1 Calculate

the water retention value for the mortar as follows:

Water retention value =7X

100

where
A = flow after suction, and
B = flow immediately

after mixing.

30

IS:2250- 1981
( Continucdfrom
page2 )
Members

Rcpresmting

SHRI I.% CHOPRA

Tirath Ram Ahuja Pvt Ltd, New Delhi
SHRI K.S. KHARB
Institution of Surveyors, New Delhi
Sam JJZETMALHOTRA
Indian Institute of Architects, Punjab
SHRI Y. K. MEHTA
Concrete Association of India, Bombay
SERI V. D. LONDHE ( Alternate )
DR S. S. REHSI
Cent;~or~u~lding Research Institute

( CSIR ),

SRRI B. K. JINDAL (Alternate)

SENIORCIVIL ENQINEER( DESIC+NS/ Railway Board, New Delhi
SPECIAL) NORTHERNRAILWAY
SRRI K. S. SRINIVASAN
National Buildings Organization, New Delhi
ASSISTANTDIRECTOR( Afternah)
SUPERINTENDINNO E N o I N E E R Public Works Department, Government of Tamil
( PLANNING& DESIC+NS
)
Nadu, Madras
ENQINEER,
EXECUTIVE
( BUILDINQCENTRE) ( AItem& )
SUPER~NTENDINQEN~INEE.U AND Public Works & Housing Department, Bombay
DEPUTY SECRETARY(B)
SUPEBINTENDINQ SURVEYOR OF Central Public Works Department, New Delhi
WORKS ( FOOD)
SURVEYORB
ox WORKS ( FOOD) ( Altcrwte )
Engineer-in-Chiefs Branch, Army Headquarters,
SRRI K. M. TANDON
New Delhi
SHRI B. S. GOPALAN ( Altarnate )

31

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