Preparation of Lime Concrete

Good lime concrete is prepared using hydraulic lime. Fat lime is not used as it is not suitable to use in large masses. The sand to be used should be free from impurities. The coarse aggregates used for lime concrete are broken bricks or broken stones. The water used should be clean.

The mix proportion adopted for various works are as follows:

1. Under floors – 1:2:3
2. Foundation work – 1:2:4

The following procedure is adopted while preparing lime concrete:

1. Based on the mix, the quantity of coarse aggregate required is measured, slaked and soaked adequately with water, and a measured quantity of sand is added.
2. Dry mixing is done first, and then a sufficient quantity of water is added. The whole mass is again mixed thoroughly to obtain the correct consistency.
3. The wet concrete is laid in uniform layers in such a manner that after compaction, the thickness should not be more than 15 cm. The compaction is done with light hammers.
4. The concrete is allowed to set for 24 hours.
5. The surface of the concrete is watered and rammed with heavy hammers till the concrete is thoroughly compacted.