Properties of Volcanic Tuff Sands as a New Material for Masonry Mortar

Abstract

In constructions at urban areas, using materials with unknown chemical and mechanical characteristics in the manufacturing
of load bearing walls and plastering results in damage occurrences, which are diffi cult and expensive to repair. The subject of this
study is to research whether the material in question is suitable for use in mortar making. We tried to fi nd a scientifi c identity for this
material. The results were compared with the code of TS, ASTM and literature. The results show that the volcanic tuff sand (VTS)
which was found in the material increased the mortars adhesion and bonding strength and durability. It is therefore, concluded that
VTS can be used as a mortar material of the load bearing walls, plastering and other applications.