Redispersible polymer powder is a key additive used in cementitious or gypsum-based materials in the construction industry. The powder is made by spray-drying a polymer dispersion, which creates a free-flowing powder that can be easily mixed with other dry ingredients. There are several different types of redispersible polymer powder available, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. In this section, we will look at some of the most common types of redispersible polymer powder.

1. Vinyl acetate-ethylene (VAE) redispersible polymer powder

VAE redispersible polymer powder is one of the most commonly used types of redispersible polymer powder in the construction industry. It is made by polymerizing vinyl acetate and ethylene in a water-based emulsion, which is then spray-dried to create a free-flowing powder. VAE redispersible polymer powder is known for its excellent adhesion, flexibility, and water resistance, making it ideal for use in applications where durability is important, such as concrete repair, tile adhesive, and exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS).

2. Vinyl acetate-based redispersible polymer powder

Vinyl acetate-based redispersible polymer powder is made by polymerizing vinyl acetate in a water-based emulsion, which is then spray-dried to create a free-flowing powder. This type of redispersible polymer powder is known for its excellent adhesion, workability, and freeze-thaw resistance, making it ideal for use in applications such as plaster, stucco, and decorative coatings.

3. Acrylic-based redispersible polymer powder

Acrylic-based redispersible polymer powder is made by polymerizing acrylic monomers in a water-based emulsion, which is then spray-dried to create a free-flowing powder. Acrylic-based redispersible polymer powder is known for its excellent water resistance, adhesion, and flexibility, making it ideal for use in applications such as grout, concrete repair, and tile adhesive.

4. Styrene-butadiene-based (SBR) redispersible polymer powder

SBR redispersible polymer powder is made by polymerizing styrene and butadiene in a water-based emulsion, which is then spray-dried to create a free-flowing powder. SBR redispersible polymer powder is known for its excellent flexibility, adhesion, and water resistance, making it ideal for use in applications such as mortar, grout, and concrete repair.

5. Ethylene-vinyl chloride (EVC) redispersible polymer powder

EVC redispersible polymer powder is made by polymerizing ethylene and vinyl chloride in a water-based emulsion, which is then spray-dried to create a free-flowing powder. EVC redispersible polymer powder is known for its excellent water resistance, adhesion, and flexibility, making it ideal for use in applications such as tile adhesive, concrete repair, and EIFS.

6. Redispersible polymer powder with modified starch

Redispersible polymer powder with modified starch is made by adding modified starch to the water-based emulsion before spray-drying. The modified starch acts as a dispersant, helping to stabilize the emulsion and improve the redispersibility of the powder. This type of redispersible polymer powder is known for its excellent adhesion, workability, and water resistance, making it ideal for use in applications such as mortar, grout, and plaster.

7. Redispersible polymer powder with cellulose ether

Redispersible polymer powder with cellulose ether is made by adding cellulose ether to the water-based emulsion before spray-drying. The cellulose ether acts as a thickener, improving the workability of the powder and reducing the amount of water needed in the mix. This type of redispersible polymer powder is known for its excellent adhesion, workability, and water retention, making it ideal for use in applications such as tile adhesive, grout, and cementitious waterproofing membranes.