Large-format slabs are consistently popular with architects, designers and customers for decorating interiors of residential or public spaces. They give the necessary scale and expression, provide faster installation. However, large slabs must comply with a number of requirements, including the use of adhesives.
Large-format slabs may be up to three meters long and may weigh several tens of kilograms. Such a format can’t be fixed with an ordinary cement glue, especially when installing in a vertical position or with intensive use of slabs in a horizontal position (pedestrian load). Moreover, a special solution is required if large-format slabs are used in facade cladding. By standards, slabs are considered large-format if they are 60 cm long on one side.
For installation of large-format slabs of porcelain stoneware, natural stone and double- and single-burned ceramic plates, experts at the MAPEI international research center have developed a special improved adhesive elastic composition Keraflex Maxi S1 based on cement, special sand and a large number of different synthetic resins. The adhesive compound may be applied up to 15 mm thick with an open time of more than 30 minutes. Even when a heavy coat is applied, the adhesive does not shrink, does not slip at the installation stage, and has a high degree of thixotropy.
But the basic advantages of Keraflex Maxi S1 adhesive include a combination of very high adhesion strength – 2.6 MPa – and elasticity. And these features have no analogues on the market. The adhesive qualities provide an opportunity to apply slabs from top to bottom without the use of supports. Keraflex Maxi S1 may be used for facing facades, surfaces of pools and reservoirs, without damaging when exposed to water.
Keraflex Maxi S1 adhesive can be applied to most types of surfaces. In particular, on cement screeds, underfloor heating, vertical plaster surfaces, firmly fixed gypsum-cardboard sheets, coatings of ceramic or marble tiles. That is, any solid basis, except for wood and PVC, subject to potentially high deformation.
The adhesive compound is prepared similarly to other cement-based construction adhesives. For large-format slabs, void-free laying is recommended, which is achieved by applying glue both on the base and on the back of the slabs. It is especially important when laying slabs in places with high traffic, for outdoor facing and in reservoirs.
The glue is available in both gray and white colors. Developed by the MAPEI company, the reinforced adhesive composition Keraflex Maxi S1 deals with the challenge of reliable and durable laying of popular large-format slabs.
