HPMC Water Retention Testing Methods: A Key to Enhancing Construction Material Performance

As a nonionic cellulose ether, HPMC is widely used in dry-mix mortar, tile adhesives, and wall putty, where its water retention capability plays 

a crucial role in workability and final material quality. To accurately evaluate the water retention performance of HPMC, various testing methods 

are employed in the industry.

HPMC Water Retention Testing Methods

Filter Paper Method

This is one of the most commonly used methods to assess the water retention capacity of HPMC. In this test, an HPMC solution or HPMC-modified 

mortar is applied to quantitative filter paper and placed in a controlled temperature and humidity environment for a set duration. The amount of water 

absorbed by the filter paper is measured to calculate the water retention rate of HPMC.

Gypsum Board Method

In this test, HPMC-containing mortar is applied to a standard gypsum board and cured under specific temperature and humidity conditions. 

By measuring the residual moisture content, the water retention rate of HPMC is determined. This method closely simulates the moisture loss behavior 

of mortar in real-world applications, making it highly relevant for construction engineering.

Slump Flow Test

This method is primarily used for self-leveling mortar and high-fluidity materials. After forming HPMC-modified mortar in a standard slump cone, the flow 

diameter is measured to assess the relationship between rheological properties and water retention. HPMC enhances the viscosity and yield stress of the mortar, 

thereby controlling the rate of water loss.

Weight Loss Method

This approach measures the evaporation rate of water in an HPMC-modified mortar sample over a specific period, calculating the moisture retention rate. 

It provides a direct representation of HPMC’s water retention efficiency under different environmental conditions, particularly in high-temperature applications.

The Importance of HPMC’s Water Retention

HPMC’s water retention capacity directly influences the hydration reaction efficiency of cementitious materials, which determines strength development and 

adhesion performance. High-quality HPMC can effectively delay water evaporation in hot and dry conditions, preventing plastic shrinkage cracking and improving 

workability during application.

As the demand for high-performance construction additives continues to grow, water retention testing methods for HPMC are evolving toward standardization, 

precision testing, and smart analysis. Advanced techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) are being 

integrated to further analyze the relationship between HPMC’s molecular structure and water retention behavior, providing scientific insights for product optimization.

 the continuous improvement of HPMC water retention testing methods not only enhances the performance of construction materials but also supports the 

advancement of sustainable building technologies, offering more reliable and efficient solutions for the industry.

Name: Cecilia.Wang

E-Mail:cecilia.wang@jtdf-rdp.com

Mobile:+86 190 3451 3486（Whatsapp）