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Gypsum/Plaster

In the proportioning of building mortar, gypsum, as one of the commonly used cementitious materials, is widely applied in various construction scenarios such as leveling, plastering, self-leveling and interior wall plastering. However, gypsum materials themselves have problems such as short setting time, easy cracking, poor fluidity and easy delamination. Therefore, adding an appropriate amount of functional admixtures becomes particularly crucial.
Cellulose, especially hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), is widely used in gypsum-based products and is one of the most mature gypsum admixtures on the current market.

Improved Water Retention:

Gypsum slurry itself has poor water retention and is prone to rapid water loss under high temperatures or in well-ventilated environments, leading to cracking and decreased strength. Cellulose ethers form a moist protective film within the slurry, effectively delaying water evaporation and ensuring full hydration of the gypsum, thereby reducing the risk of cracking and peeling, and improving final strength.

Improved Workability (Thickening and Anti-Sagging):

Cellulose ethers significantly increase the consistency and viscosity of gypsum slurry, giving it good thixotropic properties. This makes it easier to apply and less prone to sagging or peeling, making it particularly suitable for thin-layer plastering and puttying.

Enhanced Adhesion:

Cellulose ethers improve the adhesion strength between gypsum slurry and the substrate (such as walls and gypsum board), allowing the material to adhere more firmly to the base and reducing hollow areas and peeling.

Improved Homogeneity and Flowability:

In gypsum self-leveling mortar, cellulose ethers help maintain a homogeneous slurry, preventing segregation, while providing suitable flowability for smoother application and a smoother surface.

Retarding Effect:

Cellulose ethers can appropriately extend the setting time of gypsum, providing a longer working window, especially important in high-temperature environments or for large-area applications.

Air Entraining and Foam Stabilizing Effect:

Some cellulose ethers have a slight air-entraining effect, introducing micro-bubbles into the slurry, increasing bulk density, improving thermal insulation performance and workability. However, the dosage must be controlled to avoid excessive strength reduction

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Gypsum/Plaster

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