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What Is Insulation Mortar? Is It The Same As Lightweight Gypsum Plaster?

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What Is Insulation Mortar? Is It The Same As Lightweight Gypsum Plaster?

Understanding Insulation Mortar  


Insulation mortar is a premixed dry powder material composed of insulating aggregates, cementitious binders, and modifying additives. It is designed to create thermal insulation layers on building surfaces. Unlike lightweight gypsum plaster (used for interior wall leveling), insulation mortar focuses on thermal performance and is applied to exterior walls or specific energy-efficient structures.  


Types of Insulation Mortar


1. Inorganic Insulation Mortar  

Composition:  

- Lightweight aggregates: Vitrified microspheres or expanded perlite.  

- Binders: Cement + polymers (e.g., HPMC/RDP for adhesion and flexibility).  

- Additives: Crack-resistant agents, waterproofing modifiers.  



Key Advantages:  

✅ Fireproof (Class A1 non-combustible).  

✅ Durable: Resists aging, moisture, and cracking.  

✅ Eco-friendly: No toxic emissions.  



Typical Application Steps:  

1. Surface Prep: Clean the substrate, apply interface mortar.  

2. Base Coat: Mix vitrified microsphere mortar with water, apply in 2 layers (15–20mm total).  

3. Reinforcement: Embed alkali-resistant fiberglass mesh in anti-crack mortar (3–4mm).  

4. Finish: Plaster + paint.  



2. Organic Insulation Mortar

Composition:  

- Lightweight aggregates: Expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads.  

- Binders: Cement + redispersible polymer powder (RDP).  



Pros & Limitations:  

✔ Better insulation (lower thermal conductivity than inorganic).  

✔ Lower cost.  

❌ Flammable (requires fire barriers).  

❌ Poor weather resistance (shrinks/cracks over time).  



Application:  

1. Primer: Apply EPS-compatible interface agent.  

2. Base Coat: Mix EPS beads with adhesive powder, trowel or spray.  

3. Reinforcement: Cover with mesh + anti-crack mortar (2–3mm).  



Inorganic vs. Organic: Which to Choose?


FactorInorganic Insulation MortarOrganic Insulation Mortar
Thermal performanceGood (λ: 0.07–0.09 W/m·K)Excellent (λ: 0.05–0.06 W/m·K)
Fire safetyNon-combustibleFlammable (needs fire treatment)
CostHigherMore budget-friendly
Durability20+ years10–15 years


Recommendation:  

- High-rises/hot climates: Inorganic (safety + longevity).  

- Temp projects/cost-sensitive: Organic (with fireproof coatings).  



Why Add HPMC & RDP?  


- HPMC: Improves workability, water retention (>95%), and open time.  

- RDP: Enhances bond strength (≥0.25 MPa) and flexural toughness.


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