Final answer:
For brick structures needing to resist high lateral forces like earthquakes, the recommended mortar would be one enhanced with pozzolana, similar to that developed by the Romans, or more modernly, steel-reinforced mortar for added strength and resilience against shear forces.
Step-by-step explanation:
When constructing brick structures that must resist high levels of lateral force, such as in earthquake-prone areas, the type of mortar recommended plays a crucial role in the stability and durability of the structure. The ancient Romans developed a strong type of mortar by introducing volcanic Italian sand, known as "pozzolana," to the mixture of sand, lime, and water. This mortar had improved strength and durability, making it an ideal choice for areas with seismic activity.
Modern construction techniques have advanced since Roman times, incorporating steel-reinforced concrete to deal with lateral forces such as those experienced during earthquakes. The combination of concrete's ability to withstand compression and steel's resistance to shear forces makes steel-reinforced mortar the recommended material for such situations, as it combines ductility with strength, providing much-needed resilience against the lateral forces of an earthquake.