Question

Type M of mortar has __________ parts of Portland __________ part of lime and _________ parts of sand.

(a) 3,1,9

(b) 3,1,12

(c) 2,1,9

(d) 1,3,12

I had been asked this question in a job interview.

Enquiry is from Load Bearing Walls topic in chapter Load Bearing Walls of Construction & Building Materials

Answer 1

Right choice is (b) 3,1,12

For explanation I would say: Mortar mix is available in various types viz type M, type S, type N, type O and type K. They are classified on the basis of the ratios of portland cement, lime, and sand. Type M consists of 3 parts of Portland, 1 part of lime and 12 parts of sand. It is the strongest type of mortar while type K is the least used mortar.