Synopsis

During the talk CE-Sustainability solutions for CBTA spaces, we offered a statistical approach to analyze the main factors to consider when selecting a cellulose ether for a cementitious tile adhesive solution, formulated with low clinker cement options. Cellulose ethers (CE) are a key performance additive for CTAs. At dosage levels below 1% they ensure sufficient water retention, which is crucial for strength development. Also, CEs improve mortar rheology and provide sufficient open time for tile installation. (Thielking 2006) For best-in-class performance, CEs in high-quality CTA segment are compounds. These contain ingredients which further improve key performance indicators. They reduce the slip of tiles on vertical substrates or extend the application time window. Cement clinker production is a large source of CO2 emissions globally. As a result, cement manufacturers developed decarbonization strategies that include a phase-out of high clinker cement, especially Portland cement. (EUROCEM) Portland cement, CEM I according to EN 197, was preferred for high-quality CTA formulations and producers are tasked to replace CEM I by low-clinker cements with supplementary cementitious materials (SCM) e.g. fly ash, limestone, slag, calcinated clays or combinations thereof. (DIN Media, 2011/21). The presented study investigates how CE compound compositions need to be adapted to CTAs containing different types of SCM. Applying a design of experiments (DOE) concept our study allows us to predict the effect ingredients in CE compounds, have on CTA performance.