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Undergraduate Project Report - Cracking in Waterproof Mortars

T. Constantine (2001)

An investigation into cracking in cementitous renders used to waterproof cheap hand-built water tanks in the developing world. A study of the theory behind cracking in mortar is followed by a review of readily available admixtures that affect the properties of mortar. Extensive experimentation has been carried out on these different mixes of mortar, with the result that the investigation suggests the use of a superplasticiser will reduce the cracking and hence the leakage in a mortar rendered tank. A further recommendation is to add silica fume to the mortar to increase its strength and help reduce cracking. Further investigation into the subject is also recommended.

 

Full Document: (78pp, 270kb) (PDF Document)