A tile adhesive and an emulsion-based additive therefor

Abstract

An emulsion-based additive composition for a tile adhesive comprises styrene acrylic latex, a calcium silicate activator, a crystallization activator, cellulose ether, and water. A tile adhesive composition comprises cement or a mixture of cement and sand, and the emulsion- based additive composition.

Description

[0001] A Tile Adhesive and An Emulsion-based Additive Therefor

[0002] Field of Invention

[0003] The invention relates to the tiling industry. Particularly, the invention relates to an adhesive additive and a tile adhesive containing the adhesive additive.

[0004] Background of Invention

[0005] Tiles are commonly used to form floor coverings and wall coverings. Traditionally, tiles are bonded to walls, floors and other substrates with the help of a simple mortar made of cement, sand and water to ensure that the tiles stay in place. However, a cement mortar without an additive to retain water dries quickly. This causes wastage as the mortar dries during application on tiles and / or before sufficient bonding between the tiles and the substrates is formed. Furthermore, the cement mortar shrinks after drying, forming voids underneath the tiles. Water may seep through the voids and accumulate beneath the tiles, which gradually causes debonding of the tiles and eventually leads to detachment of the tiles. The voids also create weak spots in the tiles that can chip or crack with a slight impact. Additionally, cement mortar typically has a higher consistency, making it difficult to apply the mortar evenly to the tile or substrate.

[0006] Tile adhesives were introduced in the 1960s to provide a more durable tile installation. Tile adhesives are ready-to-use cement formulations that offer stronger bonding strength, improved workability and shorter installation time compared to the traditional mortar-based method. Various types of tile adhesives have been developed to cater different types of tiles and substrates. Examples of tile adhesives include cementitious tile adhesive, dispersion tile adhesive and reaction-resin tile adhesive. Tile adhesive typically has a smooth slurry that helps create a thinner layer when applying it for natural stone, ceramic tiles, and other wall tiles installation

[0007] Cementitious tile adhesives (CTA) which contain mixtures of cement, sand and additives are the most commonly used tile adhesive. Generally, cementitious tile adhesives can be applied immediately after mixing with water. Cementitious tile adhesives set due to the cement hydration reaction between cement and water. Cement hydration results in the formation of compounds such as calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel, calcium hydroxide (CH), ettringite, and monosulphate. These compounds form a robust matrix within the cement, providing binding strength, mechanical strength, durability, and stability. The gel-like structure of hydrated cement paste hardens over time. During the hardening process, consistent moisture is required to prevent the hydrated cement paste from drying out. Typically, it requires 48 to 96 hours for initial set, and 15 to 28 days for complete curing and full mechanical strength.

[0008] Cementitious tile adhesives are prone to shrinkage and cracking, thereby affecting its durability. This is due to the presence of air voids in the hydrated cement paste that form interior micropores within the hardened cement paste. These micropores allow penetration harmful corrosive ions such as magnesium, chloride and sulfate ions with water transportation into the cement under capillary action, leading to loss or decomposition of the hydration products and eventually cracking of the hardened cement paste.

[0009] One way to reduce the setting and / or curing time of cementitious tile adhesives while improving its durability is to generate a crystalline C-S-H gel microstructure within the cement matrix. This can be achieved by adding additives into the tile adhesive admixture to convert the porous C-S-H gel microstructure of the hydrated cement paste into a dense phase crystalline microstructure. Tile adhesives with crystalline cement matrix has lower gel porosity and lower capillary porosity, which contribute to their improved water resistance and bonding strength as well as enhanced durability. An example of a cement-base infiltration crystallization water-proof material comprising a mixture of Portland cement, quartz sand, calcium hydroxide, instant sodium silicate, aluminum stearate, silica fume, water reducing agent and sugared calcium retarder is disclosed in a Chinese Patent No. CN103693923B.

[0010] Generally, crystalline cementitious tile adhesives can be cured rapidly within hours and days. The rapid curing is attributed to the further hydration of the unreacted cement particles in the hydrated cement paste and production of calcium carbonate crystals promoted by the additives. Nevertheless, crystalline cementitious tile adhesives can be sensitive to environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, leading to potential defects that affect the consistency and quality of bond of the tile adhesives. Besides, the existing crystallization process often involve complex production skills and higher material costs.

[0011] Furthermore, additives such as re-dispersible polymer powder (RPP) can be added into the cement admixture to enhance the properties of cementitious tile adhesives. Examples of RPP includes, but not limited to, styrene -butadiene rubber (SBR), styrene -acrylic ester copolymer (SAE), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyacrylic ester (PAE), and vinyl acetate and versatate copolymer (VA / VeoVa). These polymers can offer advantages such as easier handling, increased tensile and flexural strength, enhanced adhesive strength, improved water resistance and greater durability to the tile adhesives. A United States Patent No. US8349960B2 disclosed a hydraulically setting dry mix, preferably a tile adhesive, that comprises a redispersible polymer powder such as styrene-butadiene copolymers and styrene -acrylic ester copolymers.

[0012] The present invention provides a type of polymer-modified cementitious tile adhesive and the additive therefor. Particularly, the polymer-modified cementitious tile adhesive undergoes a controlled crystallization process upon mixing with water, and hence is less sensitive to environmental variations.

[0013] Summary of Invention

[0014] An object of the invention is to provide an emulsion -based additive composition for use in a cementitious tile adhesive. The additive composition is capable of inducing a controlled calcium silicate crystallization process within the cementitious matrix of the tile adhesive that is less sensitive to environmental factors such as temperature and humidity.

[0015] Another object of the invention is to provide an emulsion -based additive composition for a cementitious tile adhesive. Particularly, the additive composition is capable of enhancing e the curing speed of the tile adhesive. In more particular, the additive composition is able to shorten the curing time of the tile adhesive from 48-96 hours to 12-24 hours. A further object of the invention is to provide an emulsion-based additive composition for a cementitious tile adhesive which improves the durability of the tile adhesive. Particularly, the tile adhesive containing the emulsion-based additive is not susceptible to shrinkage and cracking. The additive also protects the tile adhesive from water, abrasion and chemical damage. Furthermore, the additive reduces the likelihood of defects in the tile adhesive resulted from external disturbances during the curing process, hence ensuring a strong bond and long-term stability of the tile adhesive.

[0016] Yet another object of the invention is to provide an emulsion-based additive composition for a cementitious tile adhesive which contributes to improved stability of the cementitious tile adhesive. Particularly, the additive remains as a stable emulsion for a prolonged period as compared to conventional latex mixtures that may separate within 2-6 months.

[0017] Still another object of the invention is to provide an emulsion-based additive composition for a cementitious tile adhesive that ensures a consistent workability of the tile adhesive containing the additive. Particularly, the additive maintains a balance between rapid curing and workability, thereby reducing the risk of defects.

[0018] Yet another object of the invention is to provide an emulsion-based additive composition for a cementitious tile adhesive which prevents issues caused by high water retention in traditional latex tile adhesives. Particularly, the additive ensures adequate water for complete cement hydration in the tile adhesive while providing high workability and long pot life of the tile adhesive.

[0019] Still another object of the invention is to provide an emulsion-based additive composition for a cementitious tile adhesive that improves bonding strength of the tile adhesive. Particularly, the additive promotes the formation of robust and durable bond between the tile adhesive and substrate and tiles by initiating controlled crystallization of the calcium silicate hydrate within the cement matrix.

[0020] At least one of the preceding objects is met, in whole or in part, in which the embodiment of the present invention describes an emulsion-based additive composition for a tile adhesive, comprising styrene acrylic latex, a calcium silicate activator, a crystallization activator, cellulose ether, and water.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the styrene acrylic latex is present in an amount ranging from 1% to 10% by weight of the composition.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the calcium silicate activator is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% to 1.00% by weight of the composition.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the crystallization activator is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% to 1.00% by weight of the composition.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cellulose ether is present in an amount ranging from 0.1% to 1.0% by weight of the composition.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the calcium silicate activator is sucrose.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the crystallization activator is sodium silicate hydrate.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the emulsion-based additive composition further comprises an anti-microbial agent in an amount ranging from 0.1% to 1.0% by weight of the composition.

[0028] The present invention further describes a tile adhesive composition comprising the abovementioned emulsion-based additive composition. The tile adhesive composition comprises cement or a mixture of cement and sand, and the emulsion-based additive, wherein the emulsion-based additive is present in an amount ranging from 20% to 60% by weight of the total weight of the cement or the mixture of cement and sand.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cement and the sand in the mixture are present in a weight ratio of 1:0.5 to 1:2. Still other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein the preferred embodiments of the invention are shown and described, simply by way of illustration of the best mode contemplated of carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description thereof are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

[0030] Detailed Description of Invention

[0031] Hereinafter, the invention shall be described according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention and by referring to the accompanying description and drawings. One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objects and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. However, it is to be understood that limiting the description to the preferred embodiments of the invention is merely to facilitate discussion of the present invention and it is envisioned that those skilled in the art may devise various modifications without departing from the scope of the appended claim. The embodiment described herein is not intended as limitations on the scope of the invention.

[0032] The terms “additive”, “tile adhesive additive”, “admixture” and “tile adhesive admixture” are used interchangeably herein unless otherwise stated. The terms refer to an ingredient or a combination of ingredients other than cementitious materials that are added to a cementitious tile adhesive mixture to alter its properties. The ingredient(s) are added to the batch before or during its mixing.

[0033] The term “substrate” as used herein refers to the surface fertile installation, that is, the surface on which tile adhesive is applied and then tiles are fixed. The substrate includes, but not limited to, timber flooring, concrete, plaster or plasterboard walls, brickwork, and existing tiles. The term “mortar” as used herein refers to the mixture of the water-containing additive of the present invention, cement and optionally sand. The mixture may further comprise other components provided these components do not impair the functionality of the mixture. The term “wet mortar” refers to the mixture of these components in wet state before the mixture dries, sets and is completely cured.

[0034] The present invention describes an additive composition for use in a tile adhesive, particularly a cementitious tile adhesive. The additive composition is also suitable for use in a grout that is used to fill gaps between tiles to provide a durable, waterproofing, low shrinkage joint finish. Preferably, the additive composition is an aqueous additive in the form of an emulsion. The emulsion-based additive composition disclosed herein is stable and does not separate into layers over prolonged period of time. As water is present in the emulsion-based additive composition, it is preferred to mix the additive with dry cement powder or a mixture of dry cement powder and sand to form a tile adhesive prior to a planned tile installation.

[0035] According to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the additive composition for use in a tile adhesive comprises styrene acrylic latex, a calcium silicate activator, a crystallization activator, cellulose ether, and water. Such combination of the ingredients emulsifies synthetic latex and chemical components, allowing the additive disclosed herein to initiate a controlled crystallization process of the calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel within the cementitious matrix of a tile adhesive upon mixing of the additive with cement and optionally sand or other components. Particularly, the crystallization process is less sensitive to environmental factors such as temperature and humidity. Advantageously, the additive enhances the bonds between tile adhesive and substrate, enhances the bonds between layers of tile adhesive, provides the tile adhesive improved adherence to various substrates, minimizes the likelihood of cracks and deformations in the tile adhesive, and protects the tile adhesive from water, abrasion and chemical damages.

[0036] Pursuant to the preferred embodiment of the invention, styrene acrylic latex is an acrylate-based co-polymer emulsion having styrene monomers. Examples of styrene acrylic latex includes styrene -acrylic ester copolymers such as, but not limited to, styrene -n-butyl acrylate and styrene -2 -ethylhexylacrylate. It should be understood that emulsions comprising primarily acrylic polymers and styrene are within the scope of the invention. The styrene acrylic emulsion may be modified with other monomers or polymers. Preferably, styrene acrylic latex is present in the composition in an amount ranging from 1% to 10% by weight of the composition. More preferably, the styrene acrylic latex is present in an amount ranging from 1% to 5% by weight of the composition. More preferably, the styrene acrylic latex is present in an amount ranging from 2% to 3% by weight of the composition.

[0037] Styrene acrylic latex in the additive composition provides polymer modification to the cementitious tile adhesive. Particularly, styrene acrylic latex acts like a binding agent that binds cement particles together and creates a continuous polymer film in the wet mortar. The formation of the polymer film improves the mechanical anchoring of the C-S-H gel into the pores on the substrate and / or tiles, hence enhancing the bonding strength and workability of the mortar during both the initial and final bonding stages. Besides, styrene acrylic latex gives a white appearance, which is ideal for tile adhesive and grouting materials.

[0038] Styrene acrylic latex fills in the pore system of the mortar. It dries and hardens, subsequently sealing the pores in the tile adhesive containing the additive, forming a compact tile adhesive after the tile adhesive has fully cured. The compact tile adhesive exhibits improved flexural strength, toughness and ability to resist impact with a reduced risk of developing cracks. Furthermore, as the porosity of the hardened surface of tile adhesive is reduced, the impermeability or water resistance of the tile adhesive is improved. The improved water resistance allows the tile adhesive to have prolonged durability at wet or humid areas.

[0039] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the calcium silicate activator in the emulsionbased tile adhesive additive composition is a disaccharide. More preferably, the calcium silicate activator is sucrose. Preferably, the calcium silicate activator is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% to 1.00% by weight of the composition. More preferably, the calcium silicate activator is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% to 0.10% by weight of the composition. More preferably, the calcium silicate activator is present in an amount ranging from 0.03% to 0.05% by weight of the composition. Calcium silicate activator in the tile adhesive additive is capable of promoting the formation of cement hydration products, particularly C-S-H gel, and the formation of membrane in the wet mortar mixture having the additive in the early phase of cement hydration, hence accelerating the cement hydration process and shortening the setting time of the tile adhesive . Moreover, calcium silicate activator disperses the cement particles in the mortar mixture, thereby promoting the formation of dense phase crystalline C-S-H gel microstructure within the cementitious matrix. Accordingly, the mortar strength is improved, which contributes to enhanced bonding strength and mechanical strength of the tile adhesive.

[0040] Furthermore, the calcium silicate activator in the additive composition is able to delay the onset of cement hydration in the wet mortar mixture which improves the workability and pot life of the tile adhesive containing the additive composition. A creamy mortar with thick and smooth texture is obtainable due to the presence of calcium silicate activator in the additive composition. Moreover, the calcium silicate activator also promotes the formation and stabilization of ettringite at the early phase of cement hydration. This is helpful in preventing cracking of the tile adhesive between the substrate and tiles as delayed formation of ettringite can lead to expansion and cracking of the tile adhesive.

[0041] Presence of calcium silicate activator in the tile adhesive additive at the preferred weight percent ranges provides optimal delayed hydration and setting acceleration as well as optimal mortar strength to the tile adhesive having the additive. Particularly, when the amount of calcium silicate activator in the additive falls within the preferred weight percent ranges, it delays the onset of cement hydration and setting while accelerating the hydration process once it has begun. When the amount of calcium silicate activator in the additive is less than 0.01%wt, the wet mortar mixture is not creamy and the formation of C-S-H is not activated before the crystallization progress.. On the other hand, when the amount of calcium silicate activator in the additive is more than 1.00%wt, the slump is high and leads to a decrease in the strength of the mortar.

[0042] In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the invention, the crystallization activator in the emulsion-based tile adhesive additive composition is sodium silicate hydrate, also known as hydrated sodium silicate or water glass. The crystallization activator in the tile adhesive additive is a binder that promotes crystallization of the C-S-H gel during cement hydration of the tile adhesive containing the additive. Particularly, the crystallization activator reduces the solubility of porous C-S-H gel, allowing it to precipitates out of the mortar mixture as insoluble crystals. The crystalline microstructure of C-S-H gel reduces the gel porosity as well as capillary porosity of the tile adhesive, consequently improving the bonding strength and durability of the tile adhesive. Moreover, the crystallization activator in the additive allows the tile adhesive containing the additive to cure rapidly through further hydration of the unreacted cement particles in the mortar mixture and promoted production of calcium carbonate crystals. More particularly, the crystallization activator promotes rapid curing of the tile adhesive at pH value of about 14. Preferably, the crystallization activator in the additive composition is able to provide a balance between the crystallization time and curing time, such that the crystalline structure is fully formed before the tile adhesive containing the additive composition is fully cured.

[0043] Similar to the calcium silicate activator, the crystallization activator disperses the cement particles in the wet mortar mixture and releasing the water particles trapped between nearby cement particles, thereby promoting the formation of the dense phase crystalline C-S-H gel microstructure within the cementitious matrix. The formation of dense phase crystalline C-S-H gel has reduced porosity, hence the tile adhesive exhibits improved durability when used in wet or humid areas. Furthermore, the crystalline activator is capable of disinfecting substrate surfaces to reduce, if not eliminate, the number of microorganisms present on the substrate surfaces.

[0044] Preferably, the crystallization activator is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% to 1.00% by weight of the composition. More preferably, the crystallization activator is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% to 0.10% by weight of the composition. More preferably, the crystallization activator is present in an amount ranging from 0.04% to 0.06% by weight of the composition.

[0045] The emulsion-based tile adhesive additive composition disclosed herein preferably comprises cellulose ether as a binder and water-reducing agent in the cementitious system. Any one or any combination of alkyl cellulose, hydroxy-alkyl cellulose, and alkyl-hydroxyl cellulose can be used. Examples of cellulose ether include, but not limited to, methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxyethyl methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, and ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose. Preferably, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is used.

[0046] As a thickening agent, cellulose ether in the additive composition functions to minimize water retention in the wet mortar and ensure just enough water for complete hydration of cement particles in the tile adhesive. Complete hydration contributes to the formation of dense phase C-S-H gel with lower gel porosity, thereby increasing the mortar strength, bonding strength and durability of the tile adhesive. Furthermore, cellulose ether turns the mortar into a gellike form, helping to create a creamy consistency and increase pot life of the mortar.

[0047] Preferably, the additive composition comprises the cellulose ether in an amount ranging from 0.1% to 1.0% by weight of the composition. More preferably, cellulose ether is present in an amount ranging from 0.4% to 0.6% by weight of the composition. Cellulose ether in the preferred weight percent range provide optimal balance between workability, pot life and curing time of the tile adhesive containing the additive disclosed herein.

[0048] Optionally, the emulsion-based tile adhesive additive composition disclosed herein further comprises an anti-microbial agent for sanitizing the substrate surfaces and preventing the growth of odor-causing microbes, mold and mildew in the tile adhesive. Preferably, the antimicrobial agent has a pH value of 5 and acts as a pH reducer to lower the pH of the overall additive composition as the crystallization activator (i.e. sodium silicate hydrate) has a pH value up to 14. If the additive composition has a high pH value, it will affect the binding ability of cellulose ether in the tile adhesive additive and the binding ability of cement in the cementitious tile adhesive. The anti -microbial agent may contain silver ions, zinc ions, copper ions and quaternary ammonium. Preferably, the anti-microbial agent constitutes 0.1% to 1.0% by weight of the composition. More preferably, the anti -microbial agent is present in an amount ranging from 0.15 to 0.30% by weight of the composition.

[0049] In the preferred embodiment, the remainder of the emulsion-based tile adhesive additive composition is water. Preferably, water in the additive composition is free of contaminants. More preferably, pre-treated water or clean water is used in the additive composition. Water acts as a balancer and carrier of the components in the additive composition.

[0050] The present invention further describes a tile adhesive composition comprising the abovementioned emulsion-based additive. Preferably, the tile adhesive composition is a cementitious tile adhesive. The tile adhesive composition can also be used as grouts, renders, floor screeds, and concrete repair mortars. Advantageously, the tile adhesive composition of the invention has lower sensitivity to temperature and humidity, ensuring its consistent performance. Hence, the tile adhesive composition disclosed herein is particularly suitable for diverse tile construction applications, especially in tropical conditions.

[0051] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the tile adhesive composition disclosed herein exhibits properties such as high bonding strength, high durability, rapid curing, improved workability, long-term stability, and improved water resistance. Preferably, the tile adhesive composition disclosed herein demonstrates rapid curing with ratios of 1:05 and achieves full cure in 12-24 hours. The tile adhesive composition is able to achieve rock -like mass in 3-7 days, showing superior strength and durability. Furthermore, the tile adhesive composition maintains a balance between rapid curing and workability, thereby reducing the likelihood of defects formed in the tile adhesive that would lead to cracking and shrinkage.

[0052] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the tile adhesive composition comprises cement or a mixture of cement and sand in addition to the emulsion-based tile adhesive additive. The combination of cement and the emulsion-based tile adhesive additive disclosed herein exhibits moisture expulsion in which water particles surrounding the cement particles in the mortar are displaced, leading to the formation of dense and tightly packed crystal structures of the C-S-H gel that leaves less room for water within the cementitious matrix, even when the tile adhesive is covered and kept under tiles or in closed construction sites.

[0053] Preferably, the emulsion-based additive is present in an amount ranging from 20% to 60% by weight of the combined weight of the cement or the mixture of cement and sand. More preferably, the emulsion-based additive is present in an amount ranging from 20% to 40% by weight of the combined weight of the cement or the mixture of cement and sand. Preferably, the cement and sand in the tile adhesive are present in a weight ratio of 1:0.5 to 1:2. More preferably, the weight ratio of cement and sand is 1:05, 1: 1 or 1:2.

[0054] In the application of thin bedding and pre-mixture, 4L to 6L of the abovementioned tile adhesive additive is mixed with 10kg of cement. The initial setting time of the mortar is 24 hours and the full curing time is 3-5 days. In the application of renders, 2L to 4L of the abovementioned tile adhesive additive is mixed with 10kg of a cement and sand mixture. The initial setting time of the mortar is 48 hours and the full curing time is 5-7 days.

[0055] Upon application, the cement or the mixture of cement sand, and the abovementioned emulsion-based tile adhesive additive in the preferred weight ranges are added into a slow mixer and mixed continuously in a circular motion until a lump-free, creamy and uniform mortar is achieved. Optionally, additional water of up to 10% by weight of the tile adhesive composition can be added to adjust the consistency of the mortar mixture.

[0056] Pursuant to the preferred embodiment, cement acts as the hydraulic binder in the cementitious tile adhesive. The cement can be selected from the group consisting of Portland cement, slag cement, pozzolanic cement, composite cement, and calcium aluminate cement. Preferably, Portland cement is used in the tile adhesive composition of the invention. More preferably, Portland cement with Portland cement clinker of more than 60% by weight of the cement is used.

[0057] Sand in the tile adhesive composition is a type of coarse aggregates that provides structural support and reinforcement to the mortar mixture. Sand improves the density of the tile adhesive by fdling in the empty gaps between cement particles. Preferably, fine sand is used. Examples of fine sand suitable for use in the tile adhesive composition include, but not limited to, river sand, pit sand, concrete sand, fill sand, masonry sand, manufactured sand (M-sand), and utility sand.

[0058] The tile adhesive composition disclosed herein may further comprise fine aggregates or fillers. Fine aggregates enhance consistency and workability of the mortar mixture. An example of fine aggregates that is suitable for use in the tile adhesive composition is calcium carbonate.

Claims

Claims1. An emulsion -based additive composition for a tile adhesive, comprising styrene acrylic latex, a calcium silicate activator, a crystallization activator, cellulose ether, and water.

2. The additive composition according to claim 1, wherein the styrene acrylic latex is present in an amount ranging from 1% to 10% by weight of the composition.

3. The additive composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the calcium silicate activator is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% to 1.00% by weight of the composition.

4. The additive composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the crystallization activator is present in an amount ranging from 0.01% to 1.00% by weight of the composition.

5. The additive composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cellulose ether is present in an amount ranging from 0.1% to 1.0% by weight of the composition.

6. The additive composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the calcium silicate activator is sucrose.

7. The additive composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the crystallization activator is sodium silicate hydrate.

8. The additive composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising an anti -microbial agent in an amount ranging from 0.1% to 1.0% by weight of the composition.

9. A tile adhesive composition comprising an emulsion -based additive composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising cement or a mixture of cement and sand, and the emulsion-based additive, wherein the emulsion-based additive is present in an amount ranging from 20% to 60% by weight of the total weight of the cement or the cement and sand.

10. The tile adhesive composition according to claim 9, wherein the cement and the sand in the mixture are present in a weight ratio of 1:0.5 to 1:2.