HPMC (Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose) is an important polymer material, widely used in building materials, mainly as a thickener, water retainer, gelling agent and film former.

1. Cement-based materials
In cement-based materials, the main function of HPMC is to improve the construction performance, water retention and rheological properties of the material.

Mortar: In dry mortar (such as tile adhesives, plaster mortar, self-leveling mortar, etc.), HPMC can significantly improve the water retention of mortar and prevent the mortar from cracking due to excessive evaporation of water during construction. At the same time, HPMC can make the mortar have good construction properties, improve its application and bonding properties, and enhance the anti-slip properties of the mortar. In addition, HPMC can also enhance the freeze-thaw resistance of the mortar, so that it can maintain excellent working performance in low temperature environments.

Cement plaster mortar: HPMC can provide excellent water retention in cement plaster mortar, fully hydrate cement, reduce cracks, improve surface smoothness and bonding strength, and ensure that there is no sagging during construction.

2. Gypsum-based materials
The application of HPMC in gypsum-based materials is mainly as a water retainer and modifier to improve the adhesion and construction properties of the material.

Gypsum-based plaster materials: HPMC can significantly improve the water retention of gypsum-based plaster materials and prevent the gypsum-based materials from cracking due to excessive evaporation of water during construction. At the same time, it can also improve the construction performance of the material, making it have better ductility and smoothness.

Gypsum board production: In the production process of gypsum board, HPMC as a modifier can enhance the uniformity of gypsum slurry and improve the strength and surface smoothness of gypsum board.

3. Tile adhesives
The role of HPMC in tile adhesives is very critical. It can enhance the bonding force of the adhesive, improve the construction performance, and prevent the tiles from slipping after pasting, especially for the installation of large-sized tiles and heavy tiles. HPMC can also improve the water retention of tile adhesives, avoiding the adhesive from losing water too quickly during construction, thereby ensuring the long-term stability and durability of tiles.

4. Waterproof materials
In waterproof materials, the water retention and thickening effects of HPMC are also very important.

Waterproof mortar: HPMC can improve the water retention and anti-penetration properties of waterproof mortar, enabling it to maintain a good waterproof effect for a long time in high humidity or underwater environments.

Waterproof coating: HPMC is used in waterproof coatings to improve the fluidity and uniformity of the coating, making it easy to apply, while improving the waterproofness and durability of the coating.

5. Self-leveling materials
In self-leveling floor materials, HPMC can effectively adjust the fluidity and setting time of the material to ensure that the material can cover the ground evenly after construction. It can also enhance the strength and durability of self-leveling materials, ensuring that the floor is not prone to cracks and wear during use.

6. Insulation materials
HPMC is commonly used in building insulation materials. Its main function is to enhance the adhesion and water retention of insulation mortar, so that the insulation layer can maintain its insulation effect for a long time.

External wall insulation system (ETICS): In the external wall insulation system, HPMC can improve the construction performance and adhesion of mortar and prevent the insulation material from falling off. In addition, it can also increase the durability and crack resistance of the system to ensure the durability of the insulation effect.

7. Wall putty
HPMC is an important additive in wall putty. It can significantly improve the construction performance and water retention of putty, make putty have better spreadability and flatness, and increase the durability and crack resistance of putty.

Internal and external wall putty: HPMC can ensure that the surface of putty is smooth, non-bubbling and non-sagging after construction, improve the adhesion and waterproofness of putty, and make the wall more durable.

8. Tile grout
In tile grout, HPMC can enhance the adhesion and waterproofness of the material and prevent the problem of falling off caused by water penetration in the gap. At the same time, HPMC can also improve the construction performance of caulking agents, making it smoother during the application process.

9. Dry powder coatings
HPMC is also widely used in dry powder coatings as a thickener and water retainer. It can improve the construction performance of the coating, make the brushing more uniform, and at the same time enhance the adhesion and durability of the coating film, and prevent the coating from peeling and cracking.

10. Bonding mortar
In building bonding mortar, HPMC can improve the water retention of the mortar and reduce the cracking problem caused by excessive water loss. At the same time, it can also enhance the bonding force and make the bond between building materials more solid.

As a multifunctional polymer material, HPMC is widely used in various building materials. Its main functions include water retention, thickening, enhancing bonding force, and improving construction performance. Whether in cement-based materials, gypsum-based materials, tile adhesives, waterproof materials, or insulation systems, HPMC plays an important role in ensuring the quality and construction effect of building materials.