What Is the Relationship between the Water Retention of HPMC and Temperature?

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a commonly used additive in construction materials, such as dry-mixed mortar, due to its water retention properties. Water retention is an important property of HPMC, as it affects the consistency, workability, and curing of the mortar. The relationship between the water retention of HPMC and temperature is complex and depends on several factors.

Generally speaking, the water retention of HPMC decreases as the temperature increases. This is because as the temperature increases, the rate of evaporation of water from the mortar also increases. HPMC helps to slow down this process by forming a barrier on the surface of the mortar, preventing the water from evaporating too quickly. However, at higher temperatures, this barrier may not be effective enough to retain the water in the mortar, leading to a decrease in water retention.

It should be noted that the relationship between HPMC water retention and temperature is not linear. At low temperatures, HPMC has a high water retention capacity, as the slower rate of evaporation allows the HPMC to form a stronger barrier. As the temperature increases, the water retention of HPMC decreases rapidly until it reaches a certain temperature, known as the critical temperature. Above this temperature, the water retention of HPMC remains relatively constant.

The critical temperature of HPMC depends on several factors, including the type and concentration of HPMC used, as well as the composition and temperature of the mortar. In general, the critical temperature of HPMC ranges from 30°C to 50°C.

In addition to temperature, other factors can also affect the water retention of HPMC in dry-mixed mortar. These include the type and concentration of other additives in the mortar, the mixing process, and the ambient humidity. It is important to consider all of these factors when formulating dry-mixed mortar to ensure optimal water retention and workability.

In summary, the relationship between the water retention of HPMC and temperature is complex and depends on several factors. In general, the water retention of HPMC decreases as the temperature increases, but this relationship is not linear and depends on the critical temperature of the HPMC. Other factors, such as the type and concentration of additives, also play a role in determining the water retention of HPMC in dry-mixed mortar.