HPMC (Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose) plays a vital role in tile adhesives. Its main functions are water retention, thickening, improved workability, and enhanced bonding strength.
1. Water Retention
Cement-based tile adhesives require sufficient water for hydration. If water evaporates too quickly (due to absorbent substrates or hot weather), the cement cannot fully hydrate, resulting in weak bonding or tile debonding.
HPMC provides excellent water retention, ensuring adequate hydration of cement and stronger adhesion.
2. Thickening & Rheology Control
HPMC is an effective thickener, improving the consistency and rheology of tile adhesive. It prevents sagging while maintaining good workability.
By selecting HPMC of different viscosities, the flowability and application feel can be adjusted for floor tiles, wall tiles, or large-format tiles.
3. Workability & Open Time
HPMC extends the open time and adjustability time, giving workers more flexibility to position tiles.
It ensures a smooth consistency that spreads easily, does not stick to tools, and increases application efficiency.
4. Adhesion Strength
With proper water retention, cement hydration is complete, and HPMC forms a flexible polymer film within the mortar. This improves adhesion to both the substrate and the tile surface.
This effect is especially important for low-absorption tiles such as porcelain or marble.
5. Anti-slip Property
High-viscosity HPMC provides excellent thixotropy: it flows under trowel pressure but remains stable at rest. This prevents tiles from slipping during vertical installation.
HPMC is the key additive in tile adhesives, ensuring reliable performance by providing water retention, thickening, workability, and bonding strength under different conditions. Michem – Supplying high-quality cellulose ethers to help your projects stick, stay, and succeed.
