RDP is the critical performance additive in tile adhesives, EIFS (External Insulation Finishing Systems), self-levelling underlayments, repair mortars, and flexible waterproofing systems across GCC construction markets — where the extreme thermal cycling of the Gulf climate demands superior bond strength, flexibility, and crack resistance in cementitious systems.
Technical specifications
| PARAMETER | SPECIFICATION | TEST METHOD |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Type | VAE or VAc-VeoVa spray-dried copolymer | — |
| Appearance | Free-flowing white to off-white powder | Visual |
| Bulk Density | 400 – 550 g/L | ISO 60 |
| Particle Size (D50) | 80 – 120 μm | Laser diffraction |
| Ash Content (SiO₂ antiblocking agent) | 8 – 12 % | ISO 3451-1 |
| Minimum Film Formation Temp (MFFT) | 0 – 5°C | ISO 2115 |
| Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) | 0 – +10°C (flexible grade) | DSC |
| Tg (high-strength grade) | +15 – +25°C | DSC |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 2.0 % | Karl Fischer |
| Redispersibility | Complete in water — stable emulsion | — |
| Shelf Life | 12 months in sealed bags, < 30°C | — |
| HS Code | 3905.99 |
Applications
- Tile Adhesive — Class C2TE & C2S2 — RDP is the key additive that upgrades cementitious tile adhesives from C1 (standard) to C2 (improved) and C2TE (deformable, extended open time) classification per ISO 13007.
- EIFS & External Insulation Systems — Provides flexibility and crack resistance to the base coat and finish coat in EIFS systems applied on polystyrene and mineral wool insulation boards — essential for facade energy-efficiency upgrades across GCC commercial and residential projects.
- Self-Levelling Underlayments — Improves adhesion, flexibility, and crack bridging in pump-applied self-levelling floor screeds for GCC commercial construction where rapid installation and flat substrate are required.
- Flexible Waterproofing (2-Component) — In 2K cementitious waterproofing systems, RDP contributes polymer binder to the powder component — when mixed with the emulsion component, produces a flexible waterproofing membrane for GCC bathrooms, roofs, and water features.
- Tile Grout & Joint Fillers — Improves flexibility, stain resistance, and colour retention of cementitious grouts — critical in GCC exterior applications where high UV and thermal cycling cause joint movement.
- Repair Mortars & Concrete Patching — Polymer-modified repair mortars using RDP provide superior bond to existing concrete and resistance to the aggressive GCC coastal environment — Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Kuwait City, Muscat.
Key properties
- Improves flexural strength and deformability of cementitious mortars
- Increases adhesion tensile strength on ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone
- Extends open time in tile adhesives — important for large format tile work
- Reduces water absorption of hardened mortar
- Improves crack bridging and thermal cycle resistance — critical for GCC climate
- Provides hydrophobicity in waterproofing mortar systems
- Compatible with HPMC, starch ether, and all standard dry-mix additives
- Does not affect setting time significantly at recommended addition levels
Usage and recommendations
Typical addition in tile adhesive: 1.5–5.0% on total dry mix weight. In EIFS base coat: 2–4%. In self-levelling: 0.5–2.0%. In flexible waterproofing: 3–8% powder component. In GCC climate conditions, higher RDP loading improves crack resistance under thermal cycling (ΔT can exceed 60°C in Gulf facades). Always store in sealed bags — RDP is moisture-sensitive and will agglomerate and lose redispersibility if exposed to humidity. Contact Raykem for grade selection (Tg, flexibility class) for your specific GCC application.
Packaging
- 25 kg Multi-Wall Paper Bags (PE inner liner)
- 500 kg Supersacks
- Custom packing on request
Storage and shelf life
Store in original sealed bags at < 30°C in a dry, covered warehouse. Protect from moisture — RDP absorbs water and loses free-flowing character and redispersibility. Shelf life: 12 months. FIFO rotation essential in GCC warehouses where humidity can be high.