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What is Hydroxypropyl Starch Ether (HPS) and Its Use in Construction?

Mar. 03, 2025

Hydroxypropyl Starch Ether (HPS) is a water-soluble, modified starch compound commonly used in construction and building materials. It is a derivative of natural starch (usually from corn, potato, or tapioca) that has been chemically modified by adding hydroxypropyl groups to the starch molecules. This modification enhances the solubility, thickening ability, and other functional properties of the starch, making it suitable for various industrial applications, especially in construction.


Properties of Hydroxypropyl Starch Ether (HPS):


  • Water-Solubility: HPS is highly soluble in water, which makes it easy to incorporate into water-based products such as cementitious mixtures, adhesives, and plasters.

  • Thickening and Binding: HPS acts as a thickening agent and binder, helping to improve the consistency and workability of construction materials like mortars and grouts.

  • Improved Retention: It can help retain moisture in products like plaster or dry mortar, preventing them from drying too quickly, which is important for achieving better adhesion and longer working times.

  • Film-Forming: HPS can form a thin film over surfaces when dried, which can improve the adhesion of coatings and other materials to substrates.

  • Enhanced Workability: HPS improves the flow and consistency of construction mixtures, making them easier to apply and spread.

  • Biodegradability: As a natural derivative, HPS is biodegradable, which makes it more environmentally friendly compared to some synthetic chemicals used in construction.


Applications of Hydroxypropyl Starch Ether (HPS) in Construction:


Tile Adhesives:

  • Enhanced Adhesion: HPS is often used in tile adhesives to improve the adhesion between the tile and the substrate, especially in situations where the surface might be smooth or non-porous.

  • Extended Open Time: The water-retention properties of HPS increase the open time of tile adhesives, allowing workers more time to adjust tiles before the adhesive sets.


Dry Mortars and Plasters:

  • Improved Workability: HPS helps enhance the workability of dry mortars and plasters, making them easier to apply, spread, and smooth over surfaces.

  • Water Retention: It helps in moisture retention, preventing the mixture from drying out too quickly and allowing for better bonding and curing.


Cement-Based Products:

HPS is added to cementitious mixtures to improve their flow properties and to extend the open time. This is important in products like self-leveling compounds and cement-based adhesives.

It can also help to reduce the cracking or shrinkage that may occur during the curing process of cement-based products.


Grouts:

HPS is commonly used in grout formulations for its ability to improve flowability, ensuring that the grout can easily fill the gaps between tiles or masonry units.

It also helps with water retention, ensuring that the grout remains workable for a longer period, making it easier to apply and level.


Joint Fillers:

In joint fillers for concrete and other materials, HPS helps improve the viscosity of the product and ensures it stays in place during application. It also provides a smooth finish once dried.


Renders and Stucco:

In external and internal wall treatments such as renders and stucco, HPS enhances the spreadability and adhesion of the mixture to the surface. Its moisture-retention properties help prevent early drying, which can lead to cracks in the finish.


Wall Paints and Coatings:

HPS can be used in wall paints and coatings to improve film formation, giving the coating a smooth, consistent texture and improving adhesion to the underlying surface.

It also helps control the viscosity of paint, ensuring that it applies evenly.


Plasterboard and Insulation:

HPS is sometimes included in plasterboard formulations and insulation materials to improve their workability and consistency. It can also help in moisture resistance, an important factor in environments that are subject to high humidity.


Advantages of Using Hydroxypropyl Starch Ether in Construction:


  • Improved Performance: HPS improves the performance of various construction materials by enhancing their workability, adhesion, and moisture retention, making it easier for construction workers to apply and manipulate the products.

  • Extended Open Time: The ability of HPS to retain moisture gives construction workers more time to work with materials, reducing the pressure to apply quickly before materials begin to set.

  • Cost-Effective: As a modified natural product, HPS is often more cost-effective compared to some synthetic alternatives while still delivering excellent results in construction applications.

  • Environmentally Friendly: HPS is biodegradable and derived from renewable resources (starch), making it a more environmentally sustainable option compared to some synthetic additives used in construction.

  • Versatility: The versatility of HPS allows it to be used in a wide range of construction materials, from adhesives to coatings, making it a valuable additive in many construction applications.

  • Improved Durability: The moisture retention and adhesive properties provided by HPS contribute to the long-term durability of construction materials, helping to reduce issues like cracking or detachment.


Conclusion:


Hydroxypropyl Starch Ether (HPS) plays an essential role in improving the performance of various construction materials. By enhancing the workability, adhesion, and moisture retention of products like tile adhesives, dry mortars, grouts, and coatings, HPS contributes to more durable, long-lasting construction projects. Its biodegradability and cost-effectiveness also make it an attractive choice for environmentally-conscious and budget-conscious builders.


Shijiazhuang Henggu Jianxin Cellulose Co., Ltd.

Chemical Industrial Park, Xinji City, Hebei Province, China Post Code: 052360

Copyright 2023 Shijiazhuang Henggu Jianxin Cellulose Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved

+86 177 3691 6366

+86 311 8441 3388

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