Tile Adhesive/Grout

Ceramic Tile Adhesive (CTA) is a specially formulated bonding material used for fixing ceramic tiles onto walls and floors. It is typically made from a blend of cement, polymers, graded fillers, and special additives that enhance its workability, adhesion strength, and water retention properties. CTA offers superior bonding compared to traditional sand-cement mixtures, allowing for better tile installation on various substrates including concrete, plaster, drywall, and existing tiles.

The adhesive must fit the tile, the substrate and the surrounding conditions. It is classified as C1/C2 by adhesion strength, S1/S2 by flexibility, T by reduced slip, E by Extended open time, and F by fast setting.

Testing

Open time

This test measures how long the adhesive remains workable after application. Tiles are pressed onto the adhesive at intervals (e.g. 20–30 minutes) and then tested for tensile adhesion. Adhesives meeting the standard are rated “E” for extended open time.

Slip resistance

Once tiles are pressed against the wall, the adhesive should hold them firmly in place without slipping. Adhesives with this non-slip property are classified as “T” for thixotropic behavior.

Freeze-Thaw cycles

The freeze-thaw cycle refers to repeated freezing and thawing of a material due to temperature changes. In tile adhesive, this is an important factor, especially in cold climates. If not properly formulated, tile adhesives can lose bonding strength, crack, or degrade after several freeze-thaw cycles.

Tensile Adhesive

Tensile adhesion strength is a key performance indicator for tile adhesives. This test measures the adhesive’s ability to resist separation from the tile or substrate under tension,which always classified as C1/C2.

Water immersion

Apply tile adhesive on concrete slabs and bond tiles. After curing, immerse the specimens in water for 7 days. Test tensile adhesion strength and record the value.

Lateral deformation

The lateral deformation test of tile adhesive evaluates its flexibility and ability to accommodate substrate movement without cracking or losing adhesion. It is especially important for large tiles, exterior use, or deformable substrates,which always classified as S1/S2.

Tile Adhesive/Grout

Testing

Open time

Slip resistance

Freeze-Thaw cycles

Tensile Adhesive

Water immersion

Lateral deformation

Next application

Tile Adhesive/Grout

Self-leveling Mortar/Grouting

EIFS/ETICS