Germany researches the use of nanotechnology to develop tile adhesives

According to overseas media reports, chemists at Polyester Chemicals AG in Augsburg, Germany, have recently made breakthroughs in the search for universal adhesives for tile. The key to success is nanotechnology.

According to reports, this innovative generic tile adhesive called PCI-Nanolight is based on a patented technology that combines special fillers with adhesives. This formula for the first time allows people to specifically shape nanostructures by controlling the hardening process.

Manfred Schneier, professor of building materials at the Augsburg Institute of Technology, explained: “The slimmer the nanostructures, the stronger the bond.” Scanning electron microscopy enables people to observe the microscopic world in depth. It has been found that nanostructures can give adhesion-critical reinforcement by optimally engaging the adhesive surface. Schnell said: "Ordinary cement cannot have such a strong adhesion because its structure is too rough."

Studies have shown that this new type of adhesive has some features. For example, it successfully combined the two seemingly contradictory requirements of "long disconnection" and "quick freezing." For example, using an adhesive tile with a break time of about 30 minutes, you can walk over the tiles and grout with mortar after 5 hours. The extension of the disconnection time is important for laying tiles because it allows the worker to correct the position of the tiles that have been fixed on the bonded base. The advantages of nanotechnology are particularly impressive when tiling on vertical surfaces. The particularly firm meshing and the resulting adhesiveness allow the heavier tiles to be immediately fixed and maintain the possibility of changing position.