Why Use Epoxy Mortar?
Epoxy mortar is a polymer-based bonding paste that comprises materials such as epoxy resins, solvent, binder, mineral fillers and some additives. The epoxy element is a two-component organic polymer that is blended with sand and, sometimes with coarse aggregate. Epoxy mortar with or without the aggregate will provide an impermeable environment and barrier that will protect reinforcing steel against corrosion. The certain measurements are dependent on the desired properties after curing.
It is used as an adhesive and paste for structural repair. It can also be used to fill gaps, cracks and vents in driveways, patios and plazas. In setting tasks, it is used for tile installation where sealers are not required.
What Are The Benefits Of Epoxy Mortar?
Epoxy Mortar has many benefits and is used in an array of applications.
- High-strength and high-hardness
- Excellent adhesion to many different materials
- Ease of mixing
- Cures quickly
- Strong moisture impermeability
- Stain resistant
- Good abrasion, impact and chemical resistance
- A range of colour mixes available
- Non-sag and non-slip
- Prolongs the life of structures
The premium properties are achieved by the type of formula used to produce the mortar. They are available in parts or components, where the common ones are two-part epoxy-based mortars (hardener and resin). However, it is expensive as compared to cement-mortar, but it provides the desired performance once applied. Different formulas are used by the available brands; therefore, there is no fixed formula for this product. It prolongs the life of structures.
How Does Epoxy Mortar Work?
As the epoxy mortar is in the curing process the exothermic reaction creates a temperature rise that results in expansion. If the mix has fine or coarse aggregate the temperature rise and expansion is minimised. Inevitably the mass will cool and there will be shrinkage as the mass returns to its original size. However, epoxy mortar experiences little or no shrinking during the curing process.
The Difference Between Epoxy Mortar And Cement Mortar
Cement mortar is a mix of fine aggregate (usually sand), a binder (typically lime or cement) and water. It is applied as a thick paste which sets hard as it cures and creates a tight seal between bricks and blocks to prevent air and moisture ingress.
Whereas epoxy mortar uses epoxy resin the blend to form a material that has stronger adhesive properties. Both cement mortar and epoxy mortar have specific applications due to their own characteristics.
When To Use An Epoxy Mortar?
Epoxy mortars can cost as much as eight times that of cement-based mortars. Cement-based mortars are typically easier to work with and are odorless, unlike epoxy mortars. However, despite its cost, effort to apply and odour, epoxy mortar has many great characteristics that make it suitable for certain jobs.
Due to its availability in a variety of colours, its fast curing and stain resistance, epoxy mortar is a popular choice for tile setters. Cement-based mortar can take multiple days to properly set and then must be grouted, whereas epoxy mortar does not require sealing due to its water resistant qualities. For applications like this Precon’s Epoxy Resin Free-Flow Grout is an ideal product.
Epoxy Resin Mortars are also the repair mortars normally selected for rapid and high strength concrete repairs. These mixes comprise of at least 2/3 components which are the base epoxy resin, reactive hardener and sand / aggregate fillers. If the mortar is designed for thinner layers or filling and bonding applications the aggregate is more critical in terms of its grading and granulometry, so with these products it is normally supplied premixed with the base resin component, i.e as a 2-part material such as Sikadur-31 Epoxy Adhesive Mortar.
Epoxy Mortar For Concrete Repair
Epoxy mortars are commonly used for repairing cracks in concrete beams, columns, slabs and walls, such as Adomast’s Epocrack Seal.
For long-lasting results, use Sika’s epoxy concrete repair range, suitable for use in concrete, brick, steel or sandstone repair.
For use in bedding in fixing bolts and dowels, bridge bearing pads and repair and resurfacing of stairs Epomast Mortar from Adomast is perfect. Epomast is a cementitious powder compound blended with an epoxy resin designed as a concrete repair mortar with exceptional abrasion resistance, durability and no shrinkage.
Epoxy Concrete Repair Mortar From Precon
Cracks of any size in concrete can be unwelcome due to their aesthetic appeal, trip hazard and potential for water ingress. We at Precon Products ensure we only stock the best concrete repair products from the most trusted manufacturers. Our friendly and knowledgeable team are always on hand to help you choose the product that is right for you. And with a same day delivery service available you know you’re in safe hands with us.
Author Admin. Category Concrete Repair. First published Fri, 11 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0100