MATERIALS

LOCAL MATERIALS

The moladi mortar that is used to fill the formwork cavity is essentially concrete without stone. The mix design of the mortar is specifically determined by laboratory tests that are carried out on local sand or aggregate, to ensure that quality standards are adhered to. The density of the mortar will vary depending on the sieve grading of the sand used, but will range between 1600 to 1800 kg per cubic metre. The moladi mortar mixture produces a fast curing aerated mortar which flows easily, is waterproof and possesses good thermal and sound insulating properties. moladi Thermal Properties  Fly ash can be used as a cement extender in order to reduce the volume of cement used without negatively affecting the required compressive strength - MPa. A compressive strength of between 15 and 30 MPa can be achieved in a 28-day period, depending on the cement: water ratio. Under normal conditions the mortar sets during the night (12 to 15 hours) and the formwork is removed the following morning. There is no need to vibrate the mortar in order to achieve a smooth finish. At the start of each project, local building material tests are carried out to determine the unique mix ratios required to achieve the compressive strength requirement of the walls, which is specified by the appointed project Engineer. All moladi structures have steel reinforced internal and external walls. The reinforcing design is specified by an independent, certified Engineer; according to the requirements of the structure, which is dependent on soil conditions such as clay, expanding soils, collapsing soils, dolomite etc. The Engineer would also take into account if the structure would be subjected to earth tremors, quakes or hurricanes. As moladi structures are uniformly and monolithically cast, with the reinforcing placed in strategic positions, the building is more resistant to seismic movement. All the electrical and water piping is positioned onto the formwork prior to the location onto the formwork and cast in situ to eliminate the need for cutting or chasing of walls.