The Mortar Rebound Hammer is used for non-destructive evaluation of the surface hardness and estimated compressive strength of mortar in masonry, brickwork joints, rendering layers, cement-based finishes, and other low-strength cementitious materials.
The instrument operates with a controlled spring impact mechanism, where the rebound value is read directly from the mechanical scale after impact. The rebound value may be correlated with compressive strength by using appropriate calibration curves and project-specific correlations.
With its low impact energy, the hammer is suitable for materials where standard concrete rebound hammers may be too powerful or may damage the tested surface. It provides a practical method for comparative testing, quality assessment, and identification of weak or deteriorated zones in existing masonry structures.
The apparatus is especially useful for field inspections, restoration projects, masonry evaluation, and preliminary strength assessment of mortar where core sampling or destructive testing is not preferred.
Test results should be interpreted as an indirect estimate of strength. For reliable compressive strength evaluation, rebound hammer readings should be correlated with reference test results, material condition, surface preparation, moisture condition, carbonation, and the specific mortar composition.
The mechanical design provides simple operation without batteries or electronic components, making the instrument suitable for routine site use, laboratory demonstrations, and quick comparative checks of mortar uniformity.
