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RLA PENAPATCH HB80: A Technical Overview
RLA PENAPATCH HB80 is an Australian-made, polymer-modified repair mortar engineered for structural restoration in vertical, overhead, and horizontal applications. Formulated with a precision blend of cements and polymers, it delivers compressive strengths up to 68 MPa, exceptional bond to concrete, and resistance to chloride ingress and carbonation. Its high-build capability—up to 180 mm horizontally and 100 mm vertically in a single pass—eliminates formwork in most applications. The shrinkage-compensated design ensures dimensional stability, reducing the risk of reflective cracking, while the pre-bagged format guarantees consistent on-site performance.
68 MPa
28-Day Compressive Strength
Core Features & Specifications
- High ultimate compressive strength (68 MPa at 28 days) for structural-grade repairs.
- High build in one pass: up to 180 mm horizontal and 100 mm vertical.
- Low permeability for enhanced resistance to chlorides and carbonation.
- Shrinkage-compensated for long-term dimensional stability.
- Excellent adhesion to concrete and masonry substrates.
- High abrasion resistance—tested to ASTM CS01-1984.
- Pre-bagged formulation eliminates on-site batching variability.
- Suitable for internal and external applications.
The RLA PENAPATCH HB80 Advantage
- Delivers structural reliability in critical repair zones.
- Eliminates formwork in most high-build repair applications, saving labour costs.
- Performs in harsh Australian climate conditions (5°C to 35°C application range).
- Compatible with RLA protective coatings for enhanced durability.
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Applying in temperatures above 35°C
Potential Outcome: Premature setting and poor workability.
Adheseal Best Practice: Use chilled water for mixing and work during cooler periods of the day.
Scenario: Excess water in mix
Potential Outcome: Reduced final strength and increased slump.
Adheseal Best Practice: Strictly follow the 3.6 L per 20 kg bag water ratio.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Builders (On-site Applicator): Large vertical repair without formwork
The Professional's Challenge
Time-consuming formwork in structural panel repairs.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Apply up to 100 mm in a single vertical pass with no formwork, ensuring compaction around reinforcement.
Best Practice Note
Prime with RLA Rendergrip A and allow to reach tacky consistency before application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What thickness can I apply in one pass on vertical and horizontal surfaces?
Vertical: 5–100 mm (up to 160 mm in small pockets with formwork). Horizontal: 10–180 mm. Maintain thorough compaction, especially around reinforcement, for structural performance.
Which primer should I use before placing HB80?
Use RLA Rendergrip A on most substrates and apply HB80 while the primer is tacky. For damp, occasionally or permanently wet exposure, use RLA Epilox Binder and place while tacky. Prime cleaned steel/rebar with RLA Zinc Rich Primer.
How much water do I add per bag and how do I mix?
Add 3.6 L of clean water per 20 kg bag. Mix 3–5 minutes with a mechanical forced-action or high-shear spiral mixer (no free-fall mixers). Do not hand mix or add excess water.
What are the setting times and application temperature window?
At 20 °C, initial set is about 1.5 hours and final set about 2.5 hours. Apply between 5 °C and 35 °C. Use chilled water in hot conditions and warm water in cold conditions as required.
Can I overcoat HB80 and do I need to remove the curing compound?
Yes. HB80 can be overcoated with the RLA range of decorative and protective coatings. When cured with RLA Curecon A, overcoating does not require removal of the curing compound.
Is spray application possible?
Yes. HB80 can be applied by wet-spray method using suitable pumping and spray equipment. Pre-mix with the specified water dose and consult RLA for equipment guidance.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical/overhead structural patching (spalled concrete) | High build in one pass; shrinkage compensated for stable repairs | Builders, Remedial Contractors |
| Horizontal slab repair and infill | Single-pass placement up to 180 mm; excellent abrasion resistance | Builders, Flooring/Remedial |
| Repairing damage around cleaned reinforcement | Strong bond to primed steel and concrete; low permeability | Remedial Contractors, Concrete Repair Specialists |
| High-strength repair where chloride/carbonation resistance is needed | Low permeability protects reinforcement and extends service life | Engineers, Asset Maintenance |
Applying RLA PENAPATCH HB80: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Surface Preparation
Remove contaminants and weak material. Break out to a minimum 5 mm depth and create a mechanical key by scabbling or high-pressure water blasting. Clean and prime steel reinforcement as required.
Concrete & Masonry
Prepare to sound substrate; for highly porous surfaces, pre-soak then remove excess water prior to priming.
Reinforcement
Grit blast to bright metal and prime immediately with RLA Zinc Rich Primer.
Timing: Substrate age ≥21 days for new concrete.Pro Tip: Protect prepared areas from dust and re-contamination before priming. -
Priming
Apply the correct primer and place HB80 while the primer is tacky.
Standard
Use RLA Rendergrip A. If it dries before placement, re-apply and wait to tacky.
Damp / Immersed
Use RLA Epilox Binder and place while tacky (not dry).
Pro Tip: Avoid over-wet primed surfaces to prevent interface slump. -
Mixing
Add 3.6 L water per 20 kg bag into a clean pail. Slowly add powder while mixing with a forced-action/high-shear mixer for 3–5 minutes to a smooth, cohesive mortar.
Do Not
Do not hand mix; do not use free-fall mixers; do not exceed water dose; do not mix part bags.
Timing: Only mix what can be placed within the set time (initial set ~1.5 h @ 20 °C). -
Placement & Finishing
Place using a trowel or gloved hand. Thoroughly compact into the primed substrate and around reinforcement. Finish with a steel trowel; avoid over-working.
Build Parameters
Vertical: 5–100 mm (up to 160 mm in small pockets with formwork). Horizontal: 10–180 mm.
Spray Application
Wet-spray with suitable pump/nozzle; pre-mix to specified water dose.
Pro Tip: In hot/windy conditions, reduce open time and commence curing promptly. -
Curing & Overcoating
Cure according to good concrete practice using RLA Curecon A. HB80 may be overcoated with RLA protective/decorative coatings without removing the curing compound.
Timing: Protect from water/rain for 24 hours after application. -
Clean Up
Clean tools with water immediately after use. Cured material must be removed mechanically.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Do not exceed water dose; excess water reduces strength and increases slump.
Minimum thickness: 5 mm (vertical), 10 mm (horizontal). Occasional thinner edges only in very localised areas.
Apply only between 5 °C and 35 °C. Use chilled/warm water to manage extremes.
Substrate movement/cracking may reflect through the repair.
Protect from direct sun/heat and high wind; commence curing promptly.
Keep repairs dry for the first 24 hours.
For immersed conditions, RLA Epilox Binder must be used as the primer.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear safety glasses, gloves and suitable clothing. Use a P2/P3 particulate respirator when mixing or handling powder.
Ventilation Requirements
Mix and apply in well-ventilated areas. Avoid inhalation of dust. Keep containers closed when not in use.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Non-flammable cementitious product. Prevent contact with eyes/skin. Wash hands after use. Store dry, off cold floors, away from direct sunlight.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air and rest in a position comfortable for breathing.
Swallowed:
Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention.
Seek medical attention immediately in all cases of serious exposure.
RLA PENAPATCH HB80 Application Guide
Concrete (Sound Substrate)
Surface Preparation
Remove oil, grease, dust, coatings and laitance. Break out to sound concrete with a minimum 5 mm depth to the saw-cut edge. Use scabbling or high-pressure water blasting to create a mechanical key. Substrate age: ≥21 days.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Apply RLA Rendergrip A and place HB80 while the primer is tacky (not dry). For porous substrates, pre-soak and remove excess water before priming.
RLA Rendergrip AConcrete (Damp/Occasional or Permanent Water Exposure)
Surface Preparation
As per sound concrete; ensure standing water is removed. Maintain clean, keyed surface.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Prime with RLA Epilox Binder and apply HB80 while the primer is tacky (not dry).
RLA Epilox BinderSteel Reinforcement (Rebar)
Surface Preparation
Remove corrosion/rust to bright metal by grit blasting; remove loose scale. Clean immediately before priming.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Prime exposed steel with RLA Zinc Rich Primer immediately after cleaning. Avoid contact of the zinc primer with the host concrete.
RLA Zinc Rich PrimerMasonry (Brick/Block)
Surface Preparation
Remove weak/loose material and contaminants. Create a keyed surface by mechanical abrasion or water blasting. Pre-dampen highly porous areas and remove excess water.
Primer Requirements
Primer required
Prime to tacky with RLA Rendergrip A prior to placement.
RLA Rendergrip A
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