North Carolina General Contractors Practice Exam

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What is a common additive used in mortar to improve workability?

Calcium carbonate
Plasticizers
Fly ash
Vermiculite

The correct answer is: Plasticizers

Plasticizers are commonly used additives in mortar to enhance workability. These substances reduce the viscosity of the mortar mix, allowing it to be more easily mixed and applied without requiring excessive water. Improved workability facilitates better handling, shaping, and adherence to surfaces, which is crucial in construction for achieving quality workmanship and ensuring the mortar can fill voids effectively. Using plasticizers can lead to a reduction in the overall water content in the mix while maintaining the desired consistency. This is particularly beneficial as it can help to improve the strength and durability of the mortar once it sets, as excessive water can weaken the final product. The other options, while having their uses in construction, do not primarily serve the same purpose as plasticizers in improving workability.