Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) is an important additive in mortar, which plays a vital role in improving the performance of mortar. As a non-toxic, non-polluting and environmentally friendly material, HPMC has gradually replaced traditional additives such as starch ether and lignin ether in the construction industry. This article will discuss the important role of HPMC in mortar from three aspects of water retention, workability and cohesiveness.
HPMC can effectively improve the water retention of mortar. The water retention of mortar refers to the ability of mortar to retain its water content during construction. The water retention of mortar is related to the performance of cement and the additives used in mortar. If the mortar loses too much water, it will cause the mortar to dry out, which will greatly reduce its workability and adhesion, and even cause problems such as cracks in the finished product.
HPMC contains hydroxypropyl and methyl groups and is highly hydrophilic. It can form a layer of surface film on the surface of mortar particles to prevent the evaporation of water and effectively improve the water retention of mortar. At the same time, HPMC can also combine with water molecules through hydrogen bonds, making it more difficult for water molecules to separate from mortar particles. Therefore, HPMC has a significant effect on improving the water retention of mortar.
HPMC can also improve the workability of mortar. The workability of mortar refers to the ease with which mortar can be manipulated and shaped during construction. The better the workability of the mortar, the easier it is for the construction personnel to control the shape and consistency of the mortar during the construction process. The good workability of mortar can also reduce the number of air pockets in the finished product, making the structure more dense and firm.
HPMC can effectively improve the workability of mortar by reducing the viscosity of mortar. The molecular weight of HPMC is relatively high, and it is easy to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, resulting in higher viscosity. However, HPMC can be decomposed into smaller particles under the action of shear force, reducing the viscosity of the mortar. Therefore, when construction workers handle the mortar, the HPMC particles will be broken down, making the mortar more fluid and easier to construct. Moreover, the hydrophilic groups in HPMC can also form a surface film on the surface of mortar particles, reduce the interparticle friction between mortar particles, and further improve the workability of mortar.
HPMC can improve the adhesion of mortar. The adhesion of mortar refers to its ability to firmly adhere to the surface of the substrate. Good adhesion can form a firm and reliable connection between the mortar and the substrate, ensuring the durability of the finished product. In addition, good adhesion can also make the surface of the finished product smoother and more beautiful.
HPMC can improve the adhesion of mortar in several ways. First of all, HPMC can form a surface film on the surface of the substrate after mortar construction, which can effectively reduce the surface tension of the substrate and make it easier for the mortar to adhere to the substrate. Secondly, HPMC particles can also form a network structure on the surface of the substrate, increase the contact area between the mortar and the substrate, and further improve the adhesion of the mortar. Moreover, the hydrophilic groups in HPMC can be combined with water molecules, which can effectively increase the water-cement ratio of the mortar and further improve the cohesive force of the mortar.
The application of HPMC in mortar has many advantages such as water retention, workability, and improved adhesion. These benefits not only benefit construction workers, but also have a positive impact on the overall quality of the finished product. With the development of science and technology, it is believed that HPMC will play an increasingly important role in the construction industry and provide more and more effective and safe materials for the construction industry.
Post time: Sep-01-2023