International specifications for cementious grouts

Definition of cementitious grouts vs. epoxy grouts

Definitions of “grout” vary. Usually grouts are known as dense fluid mixtures used to fill joints and to underfill columns. Generally, there are cementitious grouts and epoxy-based grouts on the market which already share different raw materials. Epoxy grouts are two-component-products which contain an epoxy resin, aggregates and hardener. Although epoxy grouts share a low water absorption rate, higher compressive strength and chemical resistance, cementitious grouts are more widely used. Epoxy grouts can be up to five times the cost of standard cementitious grouts and are more complicated to apply. The traditional cementitious grout consists of cement, aggregates and additives and is mixed with water only. After mixing, in the fresh state, grouting products have very good flow properties and early high compressive strengths. In this context, grouts differ from conventional concrete because they are particularly flowable, have a high fine content and are capable of swelling – often referred as “non-shrink” performance.