Mortar is primarily composed of which material?

Mortar is primarily composed of Portland cement, which serves as the binding agent that gives mortar its strength and durability. When mixed with sand, water, and sometimes other additives, Portland cement allows the mortar to adhere effectively to bricks, stones, and other masonry materials.

While sand is a major component of mortar, it acts as an aggregate that provides bulk and helps with the workability of the mix, but it is the Portland cement that is essential for creating the chemical bonds necessary for the mortar's structural integrity.

Hydrated lime is often included in some mortar recipes to improve flexibility and adhesion, but it is not the primary ingredient. Water is crucial in the mixing process as it activates the cement and makes it workable, but again, it does not constitute the primary material. Therefore, recognizing the significance of Portland cement as the main component in mortar is key to understanding its role in construction.