Technical Application of Silicone Hydrophobic Powder (SHP) in Modern Construction Materials
2025-12-02 20:01Silicone Hydrophobic Powder (SHP) is an advanced organosilicon-based additive designed to impart long-term water repellency to cement-based and gypsum-based building materials. With its excellent hydrophobic effect, moisture control capability, and durability enhancement, SHP has become an essential functional material in dry-mix mortars, wall putty, plasters, self-leveling compounds, and AAC block production.
In an industry where moisture silently undermines strength—from micro-capillary channels to surface carbonation—SHP acts like a quiet architectural “umbrella,” forming a stable, inward-facing shield that strengthens the integrity of the entire system.
1. Technical Mechanism of Silicone Hydrophobic Powder
Micro-scale Water Repellency
SHP is composed of finely processed silicone micro-powders with reactive siloxane groups.
When mixed into mortar:
silicone particles disperse evenly
hydrophobic sites orient toward the pore walls
a permanent water-repellent network forms inside the matrix
This reduces capillary absorption and stops moisture from migrating into or through the material.
Breathable but Water-Resistant Structure
Unlike film-forming polymers, SHP does not create a surface coating.
Instead, it modifies the internal pore structure to achieve:
high water resistance
maintained vapor permeability
reduced risk of blistering or peeling
This breathable hydrophobicity is essential for façade renders, skim coats, and repair mortars exposed to fluctuating climates.
Long-Term Stability
Once integrated with cement hydrates and mineral components, the siliconate-siloxane system becomes:
UV resistant
alkaline resistant
ageing stable
Ensuring the water-repellent performance remains effective for years.
2. Performance Enhancements Brought by SHP
| Performance Indicator | SHP Contribution | Technical Value |
|---|---|---|
| Water Absorption Reduction | Capillary absorption drastically lowered | Prevents efflorescence, protects façades |
| Moisture Control | Limits internal water migration | Reduces swelling, cracking, and powdering |
| Durability Improvement | Maintains structural integrity | Critical for exterior plasters and AAC blocks |
| Freeze–Thaw Resistance | Less trapped water means less freeze damage | Extends service life in cold climates |
| Efflorescence Prevention | Blocks salt-carrying moisture pathways | Ensures long-lasting aesthetic appearance |
3. SHP in Construction Material Applications
Plasters & Renders
SHP helps façade and interior plasters resist moisture penetration while maintaining vapor permeability.
It prevents peeling, blistering, and mold development under humid conditions.
Wall Putty & Skim Coats
Adding SHP reduces moisture sensitivity and improves surface stability.
Walls stay smooth, clean, and resistant to dampness and staining.
Tile Adhesives & Waterproof Mortars
SHP reduces water absorption of cementitious adhesives, improving:
adhesion retention
dimensional stability
resistance to substrate moisture vapor
Particularly suitable for humid or coastal regions.
Self-Leveling Compounds
Moisture absorption is minimized, improving flatness consistency and reducing micro-bubble formation during curing.
AAC (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) Blocks
SHP is widely used in AAC block production to decrease water uptake and improve:
handling strength
storage stability
long-term moisture resistance
AAC blocks containing SHP maintain lighter weight and higher thermal insulation value over time.
4. Synergy with RDP and HPMC in Dry-Mix Mortar Systems
With RDP (Redispersible Polymer Powder)
RDP provides flexibility, adhesion, and toughness
SHP provides internal hydrophobicity and moisture resistance
Together, they build mortars that are both durable and resistant to environmental moisture—ideal for façade plasters and ETICS basecoats.
With HPMC (Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose)
HPMC ensures water retention, workability, and consistency
SHP prevents moisture-related performance decay after hardening
This synergy ensures stable construction during application and strong protection after curing.
Conclusion: SHP Enables Durable, Moisture-Resistant Building Materials
Silicone Hydrophobic Powder enhances building materials by reducing water absorption, preventing surface defects, improving freeze–thaw stability, and extending service life.
Its non-film-forming, breathable hydrophobic structure makes it indispensable in modern dry-mix formulations, especially in humid, coastal, or highly variable climates.
Our Commitment
We supply high-purity, stable-performance SHP produced with controlled siloxane modification technology.
Our technical team supports formulation optimization for:
plasters
putties
tile adhesives
waterproof mortars
AAC block production
If you need reliable Silicone Hydrophobic Powder for high-performance construction materials, welcome to contact us.
