Espansol Ancor

Espansol Ancor is a ready-to-use, superplasticised, non-shrinking mortar with extremely high initial and final mechanical strengths, particularly suitable for anchoring and grouting. The mortar’s high flowability and controlled expansion ensure that every gap is perfectly filled and provide strong adhesion. Although fluid, the mortar is highly cohesive and does not suffer from component segregation. It contains no metallic aggregates or chlorides and is free from aluminous cements. Espansol Ancor, as a mortar for anchoring steel reinforcement, complies with EN 1504-6. Furthermore, it is a product for the structural repair of concrete structures using R4-type hydraulic mortar (CC) in accordance with EN 1504-3.
When applied as a structural repair mortar in accordance with EN 1504-3, the scope of application of Espansol Ancor, in accordance with EN 1504-9, relates to principles 3 (Concrete restoration), 4 (Structural consolidation) and 7 (Maintenance and restoration of serviceability) using methods 3.1 (Manual application of mortar), 4.4 (addition of mortar or concrete) and 7.1 (increasing the concrete cover by adding cement mortar or concrete).

Instructions for use

Preparation for laying
The substrate must be clean and adequately roughened. Ensure there are sufficiently large filling and venting openings. On the day before laying, wet the substrate thoroughly until it is saturated.

Product preparation
Mix Espansol Ancor with approx. 12–13% water (approx. 3.00–3.25 litres per 25 kg bag) depending on the desired consistency; however, never exceed the maximum recommended quantity. Pour approximately ¾ of the total mixing water into the concrete mixer, add Espansol Ancore evenly and continuously, mixing until a lump-free mixture is obtained, then add the remaining water until the desired consistency is reached. The working time is approx. 30 minutes at 20 °C; at higher temperatures, the working time is reduced. Wet the substrate thoroughly and allow the excess water to evaporate or remove it with a sponge.

Installation instructions
Pour the mixture into the formwork evenly and continuously from one side only, to allow air to escape from the opposite side. Where there are narrow or hard-to-reach areas, aid the flow of the material using rods or steel bars. It is not necessary to vibrate the product. To fill voids greater than 5 cm, up to 50 per cent by weight of fine gravel (3–8 mm) may be added, i.e. 2 parts by weight of Espansol Ancor to 1 part by weight of fine gravel; in practical terms, approximately 3 builder’s buckets of fine gravel for every 100 kg (equivalent to 4 x 25 kg bags) of Espansol Ancor. This addition results in changes to certain characteristics, such as the mixing water requirement, which changes from 13 per cent of the product as supplied to approximately 10 per cent of the product mixed with fine gravel, and the mechanical properties, particularly in terms of compressive strength, with reductions of around 10 per cent, whilst still ensuring values in the region of 65 MPa. To prevent the formation of cracks caused by excessively rapid water evaporation during hot weather, and to allow the expansive action to counteract the effects of shrinkage, keep the exposed surfaces of the castings damp for at least 48 hours and protect them from wind and direct sunlight. For installation details, follow best practice guidelines and the procedures adopted for anchoring work using cementitious mortars.

Storage

Store in a dry, sheltered place. When kept in the original, unopened bags, it will keep for at least 12 months.

Warnings

• Do not use Espansol Ancorr for vertical applications, whether sprayed or trowelled.
• Do not add cement or additives to Espansol Ancor.
• Do not add water once the mixture begins to set.
• Do not apply Espansol Ancor at temperatures below +5°C.
• In hot weather, avoid exposing the material to direct sunlight and use cold water to prepare the mix. Conversely, in cold weather, use lukewarm water to prepare the mortar, ideally at a temperature above 15°C.