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Ardex X 68 Tile Adhesive is a polymer-fortified cement adhesive formulated for high-performance tiling over substrates including ARDEX liquid membranes and Scyon Secura. This C2 TE S1 classified system provides ≥1.0 MPa tensile adhesion strength and a non-slump consistency that prevents vertical sagging when fixing large format porcelain or vitrified tiles.
Engineered to meet Green Star requirements, the lightweight, sand-free formula maintains bond integrity in swimming pools and commercial high-rises while accommodating substrate deflection up to L/700 limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ardex X 68 "ultralight" and what's the benefit?
Ardex X 68 uses an advanced, sand-free formulation with low-density fillers. This makes an 11kg bag easier and safer to carry around site than a traditional 20kg bag. For tilers, this means less strain on your back, plus it's lighter and fluffier to mix and spread, reducing fatigue throughout the day.
Can I use this adhesive to tile directly over existing tiles?
Yes, but for internal dry areas only. The existing tiles must be sound and firmly bonded. You need to mechanically roughen the surface to remove at least 80% of the glaze, creating a key for the new adhesive. The surface must then be thoroughly cleaned of all dust and contaminants before tiling. Tiling over existing tiles in wet or immersed areas is not recommended.
What does the C2 TE S1 classification mean for my job?
It's a guarantee of professional-grade performance under the international standard ISO 13007. C2 means it has high, improved bond strength. T means it has reduced slip or non-slump properties, essential for wall tiling. E means it has an extended open time (30 mins), giving you more time to work. S1 means it is flexible and can accommodate minor substrate movement.
Do I need to prime the substrate before using Ardex X 68?
For porous substrates like cement render, screeds, or fibre-cement sheeting, priming with Ardex Multiprime is recommended to seal the surface and ensure a consistent bond. This prevents the substrate from drawing water out of the adhesive too quickly. For plasterboard, priming is not usually necessary unless over jointing compound.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Large Format Wall Tiling | Non-slump properties prevent heavy tiles from slipping, ensuring perfect alignment. | Tilers |
| Swimming Pools & Wet Areas | High bond strength (≥1.0 MPa) in immersed conditions ensures long-term durability. | Tilers, Pool Builders |
| General Floor & Wall Tiling | Ultralight formula with extended coverage saves time, effort, and material costs. | Tilers |
| Tiling over Waterproofing Membranes | Flexible (S1) to accommodate minor movement and fully compatible with Ardex liquid membranes. | Tilers, Waterproofers |
Applying Ardex X 68: Protocols & Best Practices
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Mixing
Add the 11kg bag of Ardex X 68 powder to 5.5 litres of clean water in a bucket. Mix with a paddle mixer for at least 2 minutes to a lump-free, creamy consistency. Let it stand for 3 minutes, then re-mix for another 2 minutes.
Pro Tip: For swimming pools or improved flexibility, create an admix of 2 litres Ardex E 90 and 4 litres of water to mix with the 11kg bag of powder. -
Application
Apply the mixed adhesive to the prepared substrate using a notched trowel. Select a trowel size appropriate for the tile size and substrate, as per AS 3958. Only spread enough adhesive that can be tiled within the 30-minute open time.
For Large Format Tiles (>400mm)
In addition to trowelling the substrate, you must also 'back-butter' the tile by applying a thin, flat coat of adhesive to the back to ensure full bed contact and eliminate voids.
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Fixing Tiles
Press tiles firmly into the wet adhesive bed with a sliding motion, perpendicular to the notches. Check coverage periodically by lifting a tile. Remove any excess adhesive from joints and tile faces before it sets. Grouting can begin after 24 hours.
Timing: You have a 30-minute open time and 20 minutes of adjustment time at 23°C. These times can shorten in hotter or drier conditions.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Moisture Sensitive Stone: Do not use for moisture-sensitive natural stones that can be prone to warping or discolouration. Use a designated adhesive from the Ardex Natural Stone System.
High Movement Substrates: Not suitable for use over timber floors or substrates subject to significant shrinkage or movement. Ardex provides other systems for these applications.
Temperature: Do not apply in temperatures below 10°C or on surfaces subject to direct, intense heat.
Bed Thickness: The adhesive bed should be applied at a thickness between 3mm and 10mm. It is not designed for thick-bed levelling applications.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
This product is alkaline and contains cement. Wear full protective gear including gloves, eye protection (goggles), and P2-rated respiratory protection to avoid breathing in dust.
Health Hazards
Causes serious eye damage and skin irritation. May cause an allergic skin reaction (dermatitis) and respiratory irritation. Prolonged or repeated exposure may cause organ damage.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Flush immediately with running water for at least 15 minutes. Transport to a hospital or doctor without delay.
Skin:
Quickly remove all contaminated clothing. Flush skin and hair with plenty of running water.
Inhaled:
Remove from contaminated area to fresh air. Lay patient down and keep warm. Transport to a hospital or doctor.
Swallowed:
Do NOT induce vomiting. Give water to rinse mouth and seek medical advice. Call Poisons Information Centre on 131 126.
Always refer to the full Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use.
Ardex X 68 Substrate Guide
Concrete, Renders & Screeds
Surface Preparation
New concrete must cure for at least 4 weeks. All surfaces must be firm, clean, and dry. Mechanically roughen steel-trowelled or dense concrete (>35 MPa) to remove laitance and create a mechanical key. Renders and screeds should have a wood float finish.
Primer Requirements
Primer Recommended
To prevent water loss into the substrate and ensure maximum bond strength, prime all porous surfaces before applying adhesive.
Ardex MultiprimeFibre-Cement Sheet & Plasterboard
Surface Preparation
Ensure all boards are rigidly fixed as per the manufacturer's instructions to support the tile weight. Surfaces must be clean, dry, and free from dust. Tiling over compressed fibre-cement must comply with AS 3958.
Primer Requirements
Primer Optional / Recommended
Priming is recommended for fibre-cement sheet. It is generally not required for plasterboard, except where jointing compound has been used.
Ardex MultiprimeExisting Ceramic Tiles (Internal Dry)
Surface Preparation
Existing tiles must be sound, stable, and thoroughly cleaned. Mechanically grind the surface to remove at least 80% of the glaze. Vacuum away all dust before tiling. This process is critical for achieving a reliable bond.
Primer Requirements
Primer not required
After mechanically preparing the surface, no primer is needed. Alternatively, if mechanical preparation is not possible, the Ardex P 9 Priming system can be used.
Downloads & technical resources
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