Glossary
Carbonation - the chemical reaction which takes place when slaked lime (calcium
hydroxide) combines with the carbon dioxide present in the atmosphere and hardens to
form calcium carbonate.
Coarse stuff - lime putty, well mixed with an aggregate to form a basic lime mortar,
usually in the ratio 1:3.
Hydrated Lime- is produced when just enough water is added to quicklime to slake
it, most lime is supplied bagged and powdered, in this form.
Hydraulic/non-hydraulic lime - a hydraulic lime produces a mortar with setting properties assisted by the
presence of water; hence, hydraulic limes are sometimes referred to as "water limes". This set is caused by clay
substances present within the original lime source, in effect a naturally occurring additive. Non-hydraulic limes are
a purer substances which can only achieve a set through carbonation, and are therefor sometimes referred to as
"air limes".
Knocking up - re-working lime mortar to a stage when it is suitable for use.
It is seldom necessary to add water, and when it is added, it does not affect the quality of the mix, unlike
remixing most modern mortars and plasters which have started to dry, where adding water is necessary and
is generally perceived as bad practice.
Lime cycle - calcium carbonate (CaCO3) burnt in kiln at 880c+ = calcium oxide (CaO) add
water = calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) exposed to air, carbonation occurs = Calcium
carbonate (CaCO3).
(Illustration)
Lime putty - Ca(OH)2 calcium hydroxide, made from quick lime slaked in water, to form
the soft buttery mixture which is lime putty.
Lime wash - in effect a very thin lime putty, used as a paint or protective coating, can
contain a binder such as linseed oil or tallow. It is usually white, hence white wash,
pigments were added to form a colour wash.
Quicklime - CaO, calcium oxide, a caustic material made from limestone which has been
burned to drive off the carbon dioxide, remains very unstable until slaked.
Slaked lime - Ca (OH)2 calcium hydroxide made from quicklime, mixed or slaked with
water. May be in form of putty or dry powder if slaked with a minimum of water.