Enhancing water resistance of plaster mortar with cement additives

¹ Mien Tay Construction University, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Vietnam
² Hanoi Architectural University, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Hanoi, Vietnam

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

Global research on waterproofing admixtures has progressed significantly over decades, driven by the need to enhance structural durability against water-induced degradation. In Vietnam, such investigations are particularly relevant due to the challenges posed by tropical monsoon climates on building integrity. This study evaluates the effect of cement-based waterproofing additive dosage (0–20% by weight) on cement–sand mortar performance. Experimental testing of compressive strength and water permeability revealed that additive incorporation up to 10% improves both mechanical properties and water resistance. Beyond this threshold, waterproofing efficiency declines, with some mixtures exhibiting inferior performance to additive-free controls. The findings emphasize the necessity of optimal additive dosage to maintain equilibrium between mechanical strength and water resistance in construction applications.