Polymer modified cement block/brick bonding mortar adhesive
abe.®fix TBM is a polymer modified cement based mortar adhesive which is used to bond concrete blocks/bricks together instead of the more time consuming traditional thick mortar bedding system. The action of abe.®fix TBM is to provide a thin but very strong bond between block/brick faces due to the optimum curing conditions gained by the modified cement within the product.
Uses
Blocks having low tolerances and smooth bonding faces can be laid very rapidly when using abe.®fix TBM.
• Interlocking blocks bonded together using abe.®fix TBM provides a very strong wall as opposed to conventional mortar.
• Blocks/bricks built with the “mortarless” system often need additional strengthening at corners and around openings.
By using abe.®fix TBM at these points it is possible to create these strengthened areas without the block or brick work going out of level.
Advantages
- Excellent adhesion and bond strength.
- Easy to apply.
- Stronger than conventional block mortar.
- More resistant to liquid penetration than plain mortar.
- Polymer modified cementitious content reduces the risk of block de-bonding.
- Reduced working time thus greatly speeding up the application process of block laying.
- Dustless technology reduces health risks and area contamination.
- Low product wastage due to the process.
- After 12 hours the bond strength exceeds that of conventional mortar.
- Forms a water resistant barrier between joints.
Coverage
abe.®fix TBM when mixed, 5 litres of water per 20 kg bag yields approximately 10.8 litres therefore a bead applied 20 mm wide x 10 mm thick will provide approximately 54 linear metres. The coverage rate will vary depending on application rate, substrate surface profile and absorption properties.
Typical Properties
| Colour | Grey |
| Loose bulk density | 1.42 g/cm3 |
| Compacted bulk density | 1.90 g/cm3 |
| Workability (25 drops on a flow table) |
175 mm* |
| Fresh wet density | 1.84 g/cm3 |
| Compressive strengths: MPa (dry cure) 1 Day 3 Day 7 Day 28 Day |
4.2 |
| Tensile bond strengths: MPa (pre-wetted surface)** 2 Day 7 Day 28 Day |
0.92 |
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*Note: No loss in workability after 2 hours under laboratoryconditions, however this may change on site due to variation intemperature, wind, direct sunlight, etc. **Note: The tensile bond strengths were obtained by pre-wettingthe surface prior to applying the product as this is our standardand recommended practice. |
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Mixing
Add approximately 4.0 litres of clean potable water to a clean suitably sized mixing vessel (+ 25 litre) and whilst stirring, slowly add the bag of abe.®fix TBM. Using a flat paddle or a suitable drill and helical stirrer for mortar mixing, thoroughly mix the mortar for 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the container periodically to release any product stuck to the sides of the mixing vessel. Add the remaining 1 litre of water and thoroughly mix until a homogeneous, lump free mortar consistency is obtained.
Application
It is always good practice to pre-dampen the blocks or bricks to reduce suction and improve the bonding properties. Apply a thin bed of mortar adhesive to the block/brick face either by trowel or by means of a caulking gun, followed by placing the block/brick in the normal manner. Strike off the excess mortar adhesive on the vertical and horizontal joints flush with the block/brick work.
Walls built up using abe.®fix TBM may be completed with the following products:
- dura.®rep FC plastered for rapid completion and superior finishing;
- dura.®slurry brush applied for a textured finish with increased waterproofing properties;
- dura.®flex brush or trowel applied for increased flexible and waterproofing properties.
The above applications may be overcoated with water based paint to obtain a desired colour.
Contact the local a.b.e.® representative for further information.
Note: Should rain be imminent within 24 hours of application postpone the application accordingly.
Cleaning
Use water for cleaning before setting, hardened material will have to be mechanically removed.
Temperature and Relative Humidity
As per concrete.
Model Specification
A modified, cement based mortar adhesive which is used to bond concrete blocks.
The modified cement based mortar adhesive will be abe.®fix TBM, applied in accordance with a.b.e.® Construction Chemicals’ recommendations or as approved by a.b.e.®
Packaging
Handling & Storage
abe.®fix TBM has a shelf life of 12 months if kept in a dry, cool store in the original, unopened packs. If stored at high temperatures and/or high humidity conditions, the shelf life may be reduced.
Health & Safety
Avoid inhalation of dust and contact with skin and eyes.
Suitable protective clothing, gloves, eye protection and respiratory protective equipment should be worn. The use of barrier creams provides additional skin protection. If contact with skin occurs, wash with water and soap. Splashes into eyes should be washed immediately with plenty of clean water and medical advice sought.
Important Notice
This data sheet is issued as a guide to use of the product(s) concerned.
Whilst a.b.e.® Construction Chemicals endeavours to ensure that any advice, recommendation, specification or information is accurate and correct, the company cannot – because a.b.e.® has no direct or continuous control over where and how a.b.e.®products are applied – accept any liability either directly or indirectly arising from the use of a.b.e.® products, whether or not in accordance with any advice, specification, recommendation, or information given by the company.
Further Information
Where other products are to be used in conjunction with this material, the relevant technical data sheets should be consulted to determine total requirements. a.b.e.® Construction Chemicals has a wealth of technical and practical experience built up over years in the company’s pursuit of excellence in building and construction technology.