What is the Difference Between Cement and Mortar?

Cement and mortar are both used in construction, but they have different properties and purposes. The main differences between cement and mortar are:

1. Composition: Cement is a fine binding powder composed of limestone, clay, and other materials, while mortar is a mixture of cement, sand, and lime.
2. Strength: Mortar has lower strengths than concrete, while cement is never used alone and is a component of both concrete and mortar.
3. Requires Water: Cement requires water to activate and harden, while mortar requires the addition of water to create a cohesive material.
4. Usage: Cement is used as a binding agent in concrete and mortar, providing a firm bond between construction materials. Mortar is used as a bonding material for brick, block, and stone, serving as a softer, more flexible adhesive.
5. Texture and Appearance: Mortar has a thicker, stickier consistency than cement, which is thinner and can be wet and slippery when mixed with water.

In summary, cement is a fine powder that acts as a binding agent in both concrete and mortar, while mortar is a mixture of cement, sand, and lime used as a bonding material for masonry materials. Mortar is not as strong as concrete and is typically not used as a sole building material.

Comparative Table: Cement vs Mortar

Here is a table comparing the differences between cement and mortar:

Cement and mortar are both used in building projects but have different properties and uses. Cement is a fine binding powder that acts as a binding agent in mortar, concrete, and other building materials, while mortar is a mixture of cement, fine sands, and lime used as a binding material when building with brick, block, and stone.