Preparation of a new polymer-modified adhesive mortar using fine iron tailings as aggregate

In this paper, a new polymer-modified adhesive mortar is prepared using the fine iron tailings, eco-cement, redispersible latex powder, additives, and water. In our study, the fine iron tailings are used to replace the natural river sand as the mortar aggregate and the optimal process conditions are determined by the orthogonal experiment. The obtained results are shown as follows: The ratios of cement–sand and polymer–cement are 1:2.5 and 4%, respectively, with the aggregate modulus 0.81 and water reducing agent 0.5% (cement-based). The properties of the polymer-modified adhesive mortar obtained under the optimal process conditions conform to JC/T 547-2005 (China Professional Standard: Ceramic Tile Adhesive). Moreover, the microstructure of the polymer-modified adhesive mortar is studied and discussed. The results show that the network formed by the intertwined polymer film can prevent the merger of micro-cracks and improve the adhesive mortars’ overall cohesion. Therefore, adding polymer to the adhesive mortar can improve its failure stress and enhance its bonding strength.