Typical Formulation Ingredients
Ingredient
Parts by weight
PVAc redispersible powder, RE526Z (Wacker)
PVA, Vinol 540S (Rohm and Haas)
(Source: Petrie, E.M., “Chemical Admixtures for Concrete and Mortar: Part II – Material Composition and Market Trends”, SpecialChem4Adhesives, 2007
Resulting Properties
Formulations for a flexible one-part redispersible tile adhesive is given. Very good bond strengths and workability are evident with these adhesives when used to install ceramic tile onto a concrete substrate. The polyvinyl acetate content is relatively small in these cements so as to retain good moisture resistance. Higher concentrations would not be suitable for tile installation in bathrooms, showers, etc.
The highest volume application for polymer cement admixtures is in tile adhesives and grouting. These materials are usually termed “thin set mortars”. Traditional unmodified thin set mortar consists of a mixture of Portland cement and sand, in proportions of 1:6 or 1:5. These mortars are generally applied to floors. For wall installation, the mixture usually contains hydrated lime for plasticity and consists of cement:sand:lime in the proportions of 1:5:0.5 to 1:7:1.
Very good bond strengths and workability are evident with these adhesives when used to install ceramic tile onto a concrete substrate. The differences in Formulations A, B, and C are primarily with regard to workability.