| Title | सुर्खी चूर्ण (Surkhi (Surkhi))Rare Surkhī cūrṇa Surkhi (Surkhi) |
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| Description | सुर्खी (Surkhi), also known as ईंट का चूरा (burnt brick powder) or पक्व मृत्तिका चूर्ण (calcined clay powder), is a fine aggregate [1] employed as a pozzolanic additive in lime mortar, particularly prevalent in Indic heritage architecture. Its geological origin lies in clay deposits across the Indian subcontinent, traditionally sourced from riverbeds and quarries. Processing involves burning clay bricks or tiles followed by pulverization. The resulting powder, with a specific gravity of 2.5-2.7, exhibits high pozzolanic activity, reacting with lime (चूना) to form calcium silicate hydrates, enhancing mortar strength and durability. Historical usage is documented in structures from the Maurya to Mughal periods, improving water resistance and overall longevity. Traditional construction methods, detailed in ancient texts like the *Manasara*, emphasize precise proportioning of सुर्खी, lime, and other aggregates. Conservation efforts at sites like Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves necessitate careful analysis of original mortar compositions and the sourcing of compatible सुर्खी for restoration. Durability depends on clay composition and burning temperature. [2], [3] |
| Also Known As | Surkhi (Surkhi) Surkhī cūrṇa Surkhi Burnt Clay Powder Brick Dust Terracotta Powder सुर्खी ईंट का चूरा पक्व मृत्तिका चूर्ण सुरखी सुरकी |
| Tags | Surkhi Brick Dust Pozzolan Lime Mortar Hydraulic Lime Terracotta Powder |
| Material ID | INHFMAT-423047299-20-11-25-SH |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/surkhi |
| API Endpoint | https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/surkhi |
| Total Sites | 1 |
| Primary Sites | 1 |
| Created | November 20, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 28, 2025 |
| Types | Pozzolan Additive Mortar Component |
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| Regions | South Asia India |
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| Time Periods | Ancient Medieval |
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| Sources | Local brick kilns Recycled brick rubble |
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| Properties | Fine powder consistency Specific gravity: 2.5-2.7 High pozzolanic activity Increases mortar strength and durability Improves water resistance |
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| Uses | Additive in lime mortar for improved hydraulic properties Production of hydraulic lime Component in plaster |
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| Materials | Lime Mortar Brick |
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| Styles | Dravidian |
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| Categories | Temple |
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| Notes |
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| Site Name | Status | Usage | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thiruketheeswaram Temple Mannar Sri Lanka | Primary | 100% |