The ALFA Water Retention Apparatus is designed for determining the water retentivity of fresh mortars in accordance with EN 1015-8. It evaluates the ability of masonry, rendering and plastering mortars to retain their mixing water when subjected to suction, ensuring reliable performance on absorbent substrates.
By simulating the suction exerted by masonry units through filter papers or similar absorptive layers, the apparatus measures the percentage of water retained in the mortar. This parameter is critical for assessing bond quality, resistance to premature drying and the proper hydration of hydraulic binders in site and laboratory mortars.
The system incorporates an EN-compliant ring mould and base assembly to form a standardized mortar layer, together with high-quality filter papers and gauze. The controlled suction arrangement ensures uniform contact and repeatable conditions, allowing direct comparison between different mortar formulations, admixtures and binder types.
An integrated vacuum or suction control unit (depending on configuration) with regulator and gauge enables the operator to apply and monitor low negative pressures as required by international standards for water retention testing of cement- and lime-based mortars and plasters. This provides stable test conditions, minimizes operator variability and supports long-term quality control.
