Strength and durability of sulfur mortar

Several mixes of sulfur mortar with varying amounts of sulfur, sand, and filler are tested for strength to get an optimum mix design. The effect of modified sulfur in improving the strength of sulfur mortar is studied. Sulfur mortar specimens of different mix proportions, made with elemental as well as modified sulfur, are subjected to wet-dry cycling in distilled water and solutions of 5% HC1, 10% NaCl, and 5% H₂S0₄, and are tested for loss of strength. Each cycle consists of 48 hours immersion in solutions, followed by 48 hours drying in an oven at 80° C (176° F). The effect of the quality of the filler on durability is studied. Test results indicate that proper mix proportioning and proper selection of constituents can yield sulfur mortar of compressive strength as high as 86.37 MPa (12,520 psi) with high resistance to acids and salts.