Succeeding with Hydraulic Lime Mortars

Abstract

The paper describes what natural hydraulic limes are, how they relate to hydrated lime or Portland cement, and the role of pozzolanic materials when used in conjunction with them. The applications for natural hydraulic limes, including their benefits in terms of flexibility and permeability and their limitations in terms of speed of strength development and necessary curing precautions, are explained. The paper sets out some of the common misconceptions in understanding the basic materials and common mistakes encountered on apparently well-controlled sites, and outlines the provisions to be included in the code of best practice being developed as part of a the Foresight lime project.