metselmortel

Metselmortel, also known as lime mortar, is a traditional building material used in the construction of historic buildings, particularly in the Netherlands. It is a mixture of lime, sand, and sometimes other additives, which is used to bind bricks, stones, or other building materials together. The term "metselmortel" is derived from the Dutch words "metsel" meaning masonry, and "mortel" meaning mortar.

Lime mortar is made by mixing quicklime (calcium oxide) with water to create slaked lime (calcium hydroxide), which is then combined with sand and other additives. The resulting mixture is applied to the surfaces of the building materials to be joined, and allowed to set and harden over time. The setting process involves a chemical reaction between the lime and carbon dioxide in the air, which results in the formation of calcium carbonate, a stable and durable compound.

Metselmortel has several advantages over modern cement-based mortars. It is more environmentally friendly, as it is made from natural materials and produces less carbon dioxide during its production. It is also more resistant to the effects of moisture and temperature changes, which can cause modern cement-based mortars to crack or crumble over time. Additionally, lime mortar has a more pleasing aesthetic, with a natural, warm color and a smooth, even texture.

However, lime mortar also has some disadvantages. It is more labor-intensive to prepare and apply than modern cement-based mortars, and it requires more time to set and harden. It is also more susceptible to damage from acid rain and other forms of air pollution. Despite these drawbacks, metselmortel remains an important building material in the Netherlands and other countries with a similar historic building tradition.