11
At a Glance: Key Applications
Use Plastabond for: Improving adhesion and workability of cement-based mortars, renders, screeds, and repair slurries. Ideal for floor preparation, patch repairs, and surface priming.
Plastabond: A Technical Overview
Plastabond is a PVA-based bonding agent and plasticizer designed to enhance mortar performance across a wide range of construction applications. By increasing mechanical strength, adhesion, and elasticity, Plastabond ensures your patch mortars, renders, and floor screeds bond securely while resisting shrinkage, water ingress, and abrasion. The water-dispersed polyvinyl acetate formulation delivers strong cohesive strength and excellent compatibility with cementitious mixes—crucial for long-term durability in both internal and external conditions.
Core Features & Specifications
- Polyvinyl acetate formulation with high bond strength
- Improves elasticity and mechanical performance of mortar
- Non-corrosive to reinforcing steel
- Reduces shrinkage, cracking, and water permeability
- Non-flammable and solvent-free
- Cures to a clear finish with low odour
The Plastabond Advantage
- Strengthens bond between new and old concrete for durable overlays
- Enhances patch repair mortars for long-term adhesion and flex
- Improves water resistance and chemical tolerance in screeds
- Ideal for internal and external use in Australian climate zones
Coverage Rate & Yield
As a bonding agent, dilute Plastabond 4:1 with water and apply at approximately 8 m² per litre. For use as a plasticizer admixture, dilution ratios range from 1:10 to 1:1 depending on strength and flexibility requirements. Approximately 7–10 litres of mixed solution is typical per bag of cement.
Application information cards
Required Tools & Equipment
- Concrete mixer or mixing bucket
- Brush or roller (for bonding coat)
- Trowel or float (for screeds and renders)
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Always apply bonding coat while tacky, not dry
- Ensure consistent mixing for uniform performance
- Protect early-age mortars from water ingress or drying winds
Avoiding Common Issues
- Do not apply over dusty or contaminated substrates
- Incorrect dilution can affect adhesion or strength
- Avoid application outside the 5–35°C range
Storage & Shelf Life Considerations
Store Plastabond in a cool, dry place between 10°C and 35°C. Avoid frost. Shelf life is 12 months in unopened original packaging.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plastabond
Q: Can I use Plastabond for external render applications in high-humidity areas?
A: Yes. Plastabond improves both adhesion and water resistance, making it ideal for external renders, even in humid Australian coastal environments. Ensure the bonding coat remains tacky before application for optimal results.
Q: What dilution ratio should I use for patching concrete?
A: For patching mortars, a 1:1 or 1:2 Plastabond-to-water ratio is typically ideal, depending on the flexibility and adhesion required. Always test on a small batch for best performance match.
Q: Is Plastabond suitable for bonding over polystyrene panels?
A: No. For polystyrene substrates, an acrylic-based bonding agent is recommended. Plastabond is optimised for cementitious and porous substrates.
Q: How soon can I apply screed or concrete after bonding coat application?
A: Apply the screed or concrete while the bonding coat is still tacky to ensure proper adhesion. Do not allow the bonding coat to dry completely before placing the overlay.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete repair patching | Improves bond strength and reduces cracking | Builders, Concreters |
| Floor screeds | Enhances flexibility and abrasion resistance | Tilers, Flooring Contractors |
| Render systems | Better cohesion to aged or smooth substrates | Plasterers, Builders |
| Slurry bonding coats | Effective interface bonding between layers | General Trades, Waterproofers |
Applying Plastabond: Protocols & Best Practices
General Application Steps:- Preparation: Ensure substrate is clean and dust-free. Mix Plastabond with water as per required ratio. For bonding coats, apply to the surface and proceed while still tacky.
- Application: Mix Plastabond-blended water with cement, sand, or premix. Apply using trowel, float, or screed bar depending on system used.
- Finishing: Finish as per traditional rendering or screeding practice. Cure as per standard methods, protecting from rapid drying or wetting.
For Builders: Screed Preparation Over Existing Concrete
The Engineering Challenge: Traditional screeds often delaminate over smooth or dusty substrates.
The System-Based Solution with Plastabond: Apply a Plastabond bonding coat to ensure chemical and mechanical key. Screeds adhere securely even on low-absorption surfaces.
Best Practice Note: Pour screed while bonding coat is still tacky for optimum bond development.
Limitations & Safety
Product limitations and safety information
Limitations:
- Do not apply to frozen or contaminated substrates
- Not suitable for use with polystyrene – use acrylic alternative
Safety & Handling:
- PPE: Gloves and eye protection recommended.
- Ventilation: Use in well-ventilated areas.
- Handling: Avoid prolonged skin contact. Clean spills with water.
- First Aid: Rinse eyes or skin with clean water if exposed. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Plastabond Adhesion & Preparation Guide
-
Substrate preparation guidelines
- Concrete: Clean, remove laitance, ensure surface is damp but not wet - Primer: 4:1 Plastabond to water as bonding coat.
- Render: Remove dust and weak surface layer - Primer: Optional bonding coat depending on strength required.
- Gypsum/Cement Board: Remove surface dust - Primer: Bonding coat recommended.
- Polystyrene: Not suitable - Primer: Use acrylic bonding agent instead.
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.