Squeeze flow of mortars on brick substrate and its relation with bond strength

Abstract

This study evaluates the rheological behavior of mortars and its bond strength with ceramic brick substrate. Reference and limestone mortars were prepared varying the kneading water contents: 13%; 15% and 17% of w/w of the whole composition. Squeeze flow results showed a decrease of displacement (around of 60%) when mortar is applied on brick substrate compared to a non-absorbing plate. Bond strength increased by 54% with increase of water content for the same mortar composition. Mortars with higher water content favor the creation of channels that facilitate water flow to the substrate thus restricting spread after the contact.