Introduction
Mortars are the most essential components used in construction work; they are used in tile adhesives, plastering, and masonry.
Table of Contents
But with the advancement in technology traditional mortars have improved with the use of additives for better performance.
One of the key additives is RDP powder.
What is Redispersible Polymer Powder?
It is a white or off-white free-flowing powder that improves the properties of mortar.
It is prepared by spray-drying the polymer emulsion, which, when redispersed in water, can form a stable polymer solution.
The different types of RDP are acrylic, vinyl acetate, and ethylene-based polymer.
It contains Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), which acts as a protective colloid that enhances mortars’ durability, flexibility, and bonding strength.
What are the advantages of using Redispersible Polymer Powder in Mortar?
RD powder when mixed in water, dissolves to make a fine polymer particle.
These particles help in the perfect binding of mortar components together and help in improving water & crack resistance, adhesion, and making the mortar more efficient and durable.
Importance of RD Powders in Mortars:
Boost Workability
RD powders used in mortars are easy & smooth to apply which saves time and cost of labor.
Enhances Adhesion
The use of RD powders in mortar helps in creating a very good bond between tiles, concrete, and bricks to give a long-lasting structure.
Increases Water Retention
It provides Improvement in overall strength by slowing down the drying process thus allowing proper hydration of cement.
Promotes Flexibility
Old tradition mortars were rigid and more likely to create cracks however using RD powders in mortars improves the elasticity allowing it to bear fluctuation in weather conditions and slight movements.
Durability
With the use of RDPs in mortar there is a reduction in wear and tear making it last for a longer time.
Minimizes Water Absorption
RD powder provides the advantage of water resistance thus restricting the penetration of moisture and preventing and protecting of structure from related damages.
Impactful & Abrasion Resistance
RD powder plays a crucial role for mortars used in high-traffic areas such as commercials and industrial settings.
The Use of RDP in Mortars in Various Applications
Due to the numerous benefits, RDP is used in various mortar applications
1. Plaster and Rendering Mortar
RPDs in mortar increase the crack resistance, and surface smoothness thereby improving durability and strength.
2. Grouts &Tile Adhesives
RD powders used in grouts and tile adhesives helps in providing elasticity and minimize cracks in tiles.
It creates a strong bond between tiles and surfaces.
It provides ease in construction activity and also workability.
The use of RD powders in Grouts can improve the toughness of mortars and restrict the entrance of water.
3. External Insulation and Finishing Systems (EIFS)
It gives good adhesion to insulation boards and provides better thermal insulation and durability.
There are bonding mortars and plastering mortars.
Plastering mortars work on the mechanical strength, durability, crack, and resistance of the insulation system.
Bonding mortars make sure that the EPS boards are perfectly bonded with each other. It helps in improving the bonding strength.
4. Repair Mortar
Using RD powders in repair mortars helps in rendering long-lasting repairs by strengthening weaker or cracked areas in the buildings.
It increases the efficiency of mortar.
5. Self-levelling Mortar
RDPs in mortars provide benefits of prevention of cracks and uniform flowability and provide very good surface hardness and durability.
6. Waterproof Mortar
It provides a water resistance layer for rooftops, bathrooms, and basements and protects against damage from water.
Dosages of Redispersible Polymer Powder
The standard recommended dosage of RD powders ranges from 1 % to 5 % of the total dry mix weight.
However, this dose may vary according to the applications and properties.
Points to be kept in mind while selecting RDP
For choosing the right kind of RDP in mortar the below points should be considered
- Ash Contends
The lower the ash content, the better the purity and the performance
- Polymer Type
Selection is to be made based on the need for waterproofing, flexibility, and adhesion.
- Compatibility with the Dry Mix
It should be ensured that there is proper compatibility with the other additives in mortar.
Final Words
When it comes to meeting the requirement of modern-day mortar formulations RDP is much looked for due to the innumerable benefits attached to it like adhesion, flexibility, water resistance, and workability.
Whether it is Plaster, repair requirements, or tile adhesives, RDP has given its 100 % to improving efficiency and overall quality.
So, by understanding the importance of RDP in mortars and selecting the right kind of RDP one can achieve superior results in any challenging project.
FAQ
What are RDP chemicals used for?
It is a chemical that is used for enhancing flexibility, strength & water resistance in construction materials like mortar, cement, and tile adhesive.
How to make Redispersible Polymer Powder?
RD powders are made by mixing special polymers and then spray drying them into a fine flowing powder, which when added in water redisperses like magic.
How can we test Redispersible Polymer powder?
Redispersible Polymer Powder can be tested by checking its dispersion when added to water, and its bonding, strength, and flexibility in mortar.
What is the HS code for Redispersible Polymer powder?
The HS code for Redispersible Polymer powder is 38244090 (3905.91) which can be easily remembered for business needs.
What are the different types of polymer powder?
Polymer powders can be classified into elastomers, silicones, thermoplastics (Meltable), thermosets, (hard and heat resistant), Biodegradable (ecofriendly).
Why are RD powders used in mortars?
RDP in mortars helps improve the performance of mortars by upgrading the flexibility, adhesion, strength, workability, and water resistance reducing cracks creation and boosting the mechanical properties.
How does RDP improve the properties of mortar?
The use of RDP in mortar improves the flexibility, strength, and adhesion resulting in a more durable and crack-resistant final result in the construction material.
What much dosage of RDP should be used in mortars?
The normal recommended dosage is 3 to 5 % of the weight of cement for best performance in the case of mortars.
What kind of mortars where RDP can be used?
RDPs can be used in the below mortars:
-Tile Adhesives
-Self-leveling compounds
-Repair mortars
-Plastering & renders
-Grouts
-Waterproofing mortars.
Is there compatibility of RDP with all cement types?
Yes, RDP is compatible with most cement types but it is also dependent on the type of formulations used.
Does the use of RDP affects the setting time?
Yes, RDP can impact setting time by delaying it and improving workability.
