Ardex X325 PTB

• Fast-Setting and Quick Grouting: allows tiles to be grouted and walked on just 3 hours after application, ideal for time-sensitive projects.

• Versatile Application: Suitable for large-format tiles and irregular slabs, ARDEX X 325 PTB works with various tile types and is perfect for external areas like swimming pools.

• Flexible Bed Thickness: Can be applied in a single layer with bed thicknesses ranging from 3mm to 25mm, ensuring solid bed fixing.

• Extended Open Time: Offers up to 20 minutes of open time and 10 minutes of adjustability at 20°C, with times varying based on temperature conditions.

ARDEX X 325 PTB is a high-performance tile adhesive designed for large-format floor tiles, irregularly shaped slabs, and specialty tile installations. Engineered with exceptional bonding strength, it is ideal for handling complex and demanding projects. With a pourable consistency, they ensure reliable solid bed fixing, often eliminating the need for back-buttering, except in cases of deep back-profile tiles like slate.

This adhesive is also perfectly suited for tiles and slabs with irregular thicknesses and is compatible with nearly all tile types, including non-moisture-sensitive natural stone. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for external applications, including swimming pools, where it provides strong, durable adhesion.

Preparation:

The surfaces intended for tiling must be clean, stable, and free from dust, dirt, oil, grease, or any other substances that may affect adhesion, with the substrate having sufficient drying time before tile installation. ARDEX X 325 PTB can be applied to both dry or moist surfaces, but moisture-sensitive materials must be dry and remain dry after fixing to ensure optimal adhesion and performance.

Mixing:

The mix ratio is approximately 4 parts ARDEX X 325 PTB powder to 1 part clean water by volume, requiring about 4 to 4.5 liters of clean water for a 20kg bag. For applications at 25mm thickness or when fixing heavy stone or tiles, use the minimum water content. To prepare, gradually add the ARDEX X 325 PTB powder to the water in a clean container while stirring continuously until a smooth, lump-free consistency is achieved. Allow the mixture to stand for 2 minutes, then stir again for an additional 30 seconds. For best results, use a mixing paddle with a 10mm chuck and a variable-speed electric drill.

The pot life of the mixed mortar is approximately 30 minutes at 20°C, with this time extended in cooler conditions and reduced in warmer temperatures.

Application:

Apply ARDEX X 325 PTB at temperatures above 5°C for optimal performance. The adhesive can be applied in a single layer with bed thicknesses ranging from 3 to 25mm. If preferred, it can also be applied in two layers: the first layer acts as a pre-smoothing coat, which should be allowed to harden before the second layer is applied as a ribbed mortar bed. It is important that the total depth does not exceed 25mm to ensure proper bonding and performance.

To apply the mixed adhesive, spread it onto the prepared surface using a trowel, ensuring an even layer. Then, comb through the adhesive with a suitably sized square-toothed notched trowel to create straight, even ribs. Due to its pourable consistency, the ribs will have slightly rounded profiles, which is ideal for achieving a reliable bond with large-format tiles.

Tile Fixing:

Tiles should be installed within the open time of the adhesive, pressing them into place using a twisting and sliding motion to ensure a solid bed fix. ARDEX X 325 PTB offers an open time of up to 20 minutes. Once applied, tiles can be adjusted for up to 10 minutes at 20°C.

The time may vary depending on site conditions; cooler temperatures will increase both the open time and adjustment period, while warmer temperatures will reduce them.

Grouting:

Grouting can begin once the tile bed has sufficiently set to prevent dislodging of the tiles, typically around 3 hours after application at 20°C. At this stage, light foot traffic can also be permitted on floor tiles. Please note that higher temperatures will shorten, while lower temperatures will extend the setting times.

For joints ranging from 3-15mm wide, it is recommended to use ARDEX FLEX FL Rapid Setting Tile Grout.