In construction mortar applications, common problems such as efflorescence, surface whitening, cracking, and freeze-thaw damage are often closely related to moisture penetration. When water continuously enters the mortar structure, it can affect not only the appearance of buildings but also their durability and service life.
So, how can manufacturers reduce water absorption and improve long-term water resistance? Choosing a high-performance water repellent is essential.

To demonstrate the performance differences between water repellent additives, Botai Chemical conducted a 48-hour water absorption comparison test to evaluate the effectiveness of its HP-70D Water Repellent against an untreated mortar sample and a competing product.
1. Test Setup: Same Mortar Formulation, Different Water Repellents
Three mortar specimens were prepared using the same formulation, with only the water repellent treatment varying:
- Sample 1: No water repellent added. Initial weight: 451 g.
- Sample 2: 0.2% Botai HP-70D Water Repellent added. Initial weight: 453 g.
- Sample 3: 0.2% water repellent from another leading brand added. Initial weight: 452 g.
All three specimens were immersed in water simultaneously under room-temperature conditions. Their weights and water absorption rates were measured after 24 and 48 hours.
2. Test Results: HP-70D Delivers Superior Water Repellency
| Test Sample | 24-Hour Water Absorption | 48-Hour Water Absorption |
|---|---|---|
| Without Water Repellent | 5.32% | 6.87% |
| Botai HP-70D (0.2%) | 1.77% | 3.09% |
| Competing Water Repellent (0.2%) | 2.65% | 4.20% |
The results highlight the performance advantages of HP-70D.
After 24 hours: The HP-70D-treated specimen recorded a water absorption rate of just 1.77%, approximately 67% lower than the untreated sample and 33% lower than the competing product.
After 48 hours: The HP-70D-treated specimen maintained a water absorption rate of 3.09%, approximately 55% lower than the untreated sample and 26% lower than the competitor.
Under identical mortar formulation and dosage conditions, Botai HP-70D demonstrated the lowest water absorption among the tested specimens, providing measurable evidence of its effectiveness in improving mortar water resistance.
3. How Does HP-70D Reduce Water Absorption?
HP-70D works by creating a stable hydrophobic structure within the mortar matrix, reducing capillary water absorption and moisture transport.
This helps deliver several important performance benefits:
- Lower Water Absorption: Limits the amount of moisture entering the mortar structure.
- Improved Water Resistance: Enhances the mortar’s ability to resist water penetration.
- Reduced Risk of Efflorescence: Helps minimize surface whitening caused by moisture movement and salt migration.
- Enhanced Durability: Helps protect construction materials against prolonged exposure to moisture.
Beyond initial water repellency, the ability to limit water absorption over time is an important factor when evaluating the performance of a water repellent additive.
4. Where Can HP-70D Water Repellent Be Used?
Botai HP-70D is suitable for various dry-mix mortar applications, including:
Exterior Wall Mortars: Helps reduce rainwater penetration and improve weather resistance.
External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems (ETICS/EIFS): Helps limit moisture intrusion and improve the long-term durability of insulation systems.
Waterproof Mortars: Enhances water repellency and provides additional protection against moisture.
For dry-mix mortar manufacturers, construction material suppliers, and formulation specialists, selecting the right water repellent can help improve product performance and strengthen market competitiveness.
5. Choose Botai Chemical for Reliable Water Repellent Solutions
The true value of a water repellent goes beyond technical specifications. Its performance should be supported by practical testing and measurable results.
As demonstrated in this 48-hour water absorption comparison test, Botai HP-70D consistently achieved lower water absorption than the other tested specimens, making it a promising solution for high-performance dry-mix mortar formulations.
Looking for a reliable water repellent manufacturer or supplier in China?
Botai Chemical is committed to providing high-quality construction chemical additives and professional technical support to customers worldwide.
Contact us today to request HP-70D Technical Data Sheets (TDS), free samples for evaluation, competitive pricing, and formulation support. Our team is ready to help you find the right water repellent solution for your specific application.
Website: https://www.hnbotaichem.com
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +8619900925762
Botai Chemical — Better Additives, Better Lives.