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Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido: A Technical Overview
Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido is a pre-blended, fibre-reinforced, shrinkage-compensated mortar designed for fast, durable structural and non-structural concrete repairs. With its thixotropic formulation, it can be applied up to 25 mm on vertical or overhead substrates without slump. It achieves compressive strengths exceeding 10 MPa within 3 hours and 40 MPa after 28 days, providing professionals with a high-performance repair solution that allows faster return-to-service on critical projects. Its superior adhesion, low capillary absorption, and high resistance to freeze-thaw cycles ensure long-term durability even in aggressive Australian conditions.
3 hrs
Traffic-ready compressive strength >10 MPa
Core Features & Specifications
- Rapid-setting: workable for 10 minutes, sets in <30 minutes.
- Fibre-reinforced & shrinkage-compensated for crack resistance.
- Thixotropic mortar – apply 20–25 mm in vertical repairs without slump.
- High early strength: >10 MPa (3 hrs), >20 MPa (1 day), >40 MPa (28 days).
- Bond strength by pull-off: >1.5 MPa ensuring reliable adhesion to old concrete.
- Excellent impermeability to water and resistance to wear.
- Compliant with EN 1504-3, Class R3 structural repair mortar.
The Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido Advantage
- Return areas to service faster – walkable/trafficable after 2–3 hours.
- Reduce labour costs with rapid curing and fewer call-backs.
- Designed for Australian jobsite extremes (+5°C to +35°C application range).
- Compatible with Elastocolor protective coatings after 3 days.
- Engineered for structural integrity with Euroclass A1 fire rating and 24 GPa modulus.
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Re-tempering the mix with water after setting begins
Potential Outcome: Loss of strength and adhesion, leading to patch failure.
Adheseal Best Practice: Mix only quantities usable within 10 minutes. Never add water after initial set begins.
Scenario: Applying to dry, dusty, or contaminated substrates
Potential Outcome: Delamination and reduced bond strength.
Adheseal Best Practice: Mechanically prepare concrete, saturate with water, and use bonding slurry for optimal adhesion.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Builders (On-Site Applicator): Structural patching on beams & pillars
The Professional's Challenge
Delays in structural repair can compromise timelines and increase costs when beams or pillars show spalling due to rebar corrosion.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Apply Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido at 25 mm per layer, ensuring structural reinstatement within hours. Achieves >10 MPa in 3 hours, allowing project progression the same day.
Best Practice Note
Always coat exposed reinforcing with Mapefer before patching to prevent future corrosion.
For Tilers (Specifier/Remedial): Substrate repairs before waterproofing
The Professional's Challenge
Uneven concrete surfaces, shrinkage cracks, and voids compromise waterproofing system adhesion.
The Adheseal Solution: Engineered Certainty in Practice
Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido provides smooth, durable patch repairs ready for Planiseal 88 or under-tile membranes within hours, ensuring long-term watertight integrity.
Best Practice Note
Finish repairs with a steel float to minimise high spots and ensure maximum coverage of subsequent membranes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the working time and set time at 20 °C?
Working time (pot life) is approximately 10 minutes at 20 °C. The product sets in <30 minutes. Plan mixing in small batches and place immediately. Warmer weather shortens these times; cooler weather extends them. Do not attempt to re-temper by adding water once setting has begun.
How thick can I apply Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido per layer on vertical repairs?
Thanks to its thixotropic formulation, apply 20–25 mm per layer on vertical/overhead substrates without slump. For deeper rebuilds, apply multiple lifts at roughly 15-minute intervals. Scratch or key each fresh layer to enhance inter-coat adhesion.
When can patched floors be returned to traffic?
Under typical conditions (20 °C), patches are ready for light traffic in ~3 hours once compressive strength exceeds 10 MPa. Protect from rapid moisture loss during early cure and avoid premature loading in cold conditions.
Do I need a bonding slurry on very absorbent concrete?
Yes—on dry or highly absorbent substrates, saturate the surface (SSD) and brush on a bonding slurry of 1 part powder to 0.24–0.25 parts water. Place the mortar onto the fresh slurry for optimal bond strength and reduced suction.
Is it suitable for precision anchors or spray application?
No. For precision anchoring, use a dedicated grout such as Mapefill or Mapefill R. For spray-applied mortar repairs, use Mapegrout Thixotropic. Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido is intended for trowelled placement.
Can I leave the repair uncoated as a façade finish?
Not recommended. The mortar may change colour after hardening and is not intended as a final architectural finish. Where a protective or decorative finish is required, over-coat with the Elastocolor system after approximately 3 days at 20 °C.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Patching spalled concrete on beams, pillars & balconies | Rapid structural reinstatement; >10 MPa in ~3 hrs; thixotropic non-slump placement | Builders, Remedial Contractors |
| Industrial floor repairs & edge rebuilds | Fast return-to-service; dense, wear-resistant finish with steel float | Builders, Flooring/Remedial |
| Smoothing surface defects (honeycombing, voids, tie-holes) | Uniform, coat-ready substrate; excellent adhesion to old concrete | Builders, Tilers, Remedial |
| Sealing surface cracks in concrete/renders | Low capillary absorption; durable crack fill compatible with coatings | Builders, Remedial |
| Assembly & repair of concrete pipes | High early strength and water impermeability for serviceability | Civil/Plumbers, Builders |
| Pointing between bricks before waterproofing (e.g., Planiseal) | Improves watertightness and coating coverage; rapid turnaround | Tilers, Waterproofers, Builders |
Applying Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Surface Preparation
Remove unsound concrete and contaminants to expose sound aggregate. Achieve a rough, open surface (≈ ≥5 mm amplitude). Clean reinforcement to bright metal where exposed, then coat with anti-corrosion protection.
Mechanical Removal
Hydro-scarify, grind, or chip back to sound concrete; square patch edges to improve load transfer.
Steel Preparation
Abrasive blast rebars; apply Mapefer or Mapefer 1K as directed prior to patching.
Timing: Complete steel priming and allow to dry before placing mortar.Pro Tip: Aim for SSD (saturated surface-dry): damp but free of standing water to prevent bond loss. -
Pre-Wetting & Bonding Slurry
Bring substrate to SSD, then apply a bonding slurry to high-suction areas immediately prior to placement.
Bonding Slurry Mix
Blend 1 part powder : 0.24–0.25 parts water to a brushable consistency; scrub into the surface.
Wet-on-Wet Placement
Place the repair mortar while the slurry remains fresh to maximise adhesion.
Timing: Place mortar immediately after slurry application; do not allow a skin to form.Pro Tip: On floors, slurry helps control suction and improves finishing. -
Mixing
Using a clean pail, add water then powder and mix mechanically to a lump-free, thixotropic mortar.
Water Demand
Per 25 kg bag use 3.75–4.0 L water (≈15–16%). Mix 2–3 minutes with a low-speed paddle.
Batch Control
Mix only what you can place within ~10 minutes at 20 °C. Do not add water once setting begins.
Timing: Immediate placement after mixing—fast setting system.Pro Tip: In hot weather, use cool water and shade materials; in cold weather, use lukewarm water and keep bags warm. -
Placement – Structural Patching
Trowel mortar firmly into the cavity, compacting to remove air and ensure full contact with edges and steel.
Layer Thickness
Apply up to 20–25 mm per lift on vertical/overhead surfaces without slump.
Multiple Lifts
For deeper repairs, apply subsequent lifts at ~15 minutes intervals; lightly notch or key for adhesion.
Timing: Finish promptly; system sets in <30 minutes at 20 °C.Pro Tip: Tool with a steel float for a dense, coat-ready surface. -
Placement – Floor Patching & Smoothing
On SSD substrate with fresh slurry, spread and compact the mortar; steel-float to finish and feather as required.
Edge Detailing
Patch boundaries should be cut square; avoid feathering onto weak or dusty material.
Thickness Control
Observe minimum thickness that ensures durability; for thin film cosmetic smoothing, consider multiple light passes.
Timing: Light traffic typically after ~3 hours at 20 °C.Pro Tip: Protect early-age surfaces from draughts and direct sun to minimise plastic shrinkage. -
Curing, Over-Coating & Clean-Up
After finishing, protect from rapid evaporation with polyethylene sheets or wet coverings. Clean tools with water before the product hardens.
Protection
Maintain moisture for at least the first 24 hours on structural patches to enhance durability.
Over-Coating
Apply Elastocolor coatings after approximately 3 days at 20 °C. Remove residues mechanically after set.
Timing: Return to service varies with temperature and load—always confirm strength has developed sufficiently.Pro Tip: In cool conditions, extend protection and allow extra time before loading.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Do not add water after setting begins; never re-temper. Mix small batches usable within ~10 minutes.
Do not add cement, lime, gypsum, or other admixtures; use as supplied.
Not suitable for precision anchoring. Use Mapefill or Mapefill R.
Not for spray application. Use Mapegrout Thixotropic.
Apply only to clean, SSD substrates; avoid dry, dusty, or contaminated surfaces.
Application temperature range +5 °C to +35 °C. Store bags cool and shaded in hot weather.
After hardening the colour may vary; not recommended as a façade finish. Over-coat with Elastocolor after ~3 days.
Do not use if packaging is damaged or previously opened; shelf life ~12 months unopened (dry storage, +5 °C to +35 °C).
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety glasses, long sleeves and pants. When mixing/pouring powder, use a P2 (or N95) dust mask/respirator to avoid inhalation of cementitious dust.
Ventilation Requirements
Mix and apply in well-ventilated areas. Avoid creating airborne dust. Use local extraction where feasible.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Non-combustible cementitious material. Store dry in original, closed bags. Keep away from moisture ingress and incompatible chemicals.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing and seek medical attention.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing. Seek medical advice if irritation persists.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air and rest in a comfortable position. Get medical attention if symptoms occur.
Swallowed:
Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical advice immediately.
Refer to the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for full health and safety information. Seek medical attention immediately for serious exposure.
Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido Application Guide
Concrete (Structural Substrates)
Surface Preparation
Mechanically remove all deteriorated or contaminated concrete to sound substrate with a rough, open texture (target irregularities ≥ 5 mm). Clean of dust, laitance, oil/grease, coatings and weak repairs. Achieve SSD (saturated surface-dry) before placing.
Primer Requirements
Bonding slurry recommended on absorbent substrates
Brush a slurry of 1 : 0.24–0.25 (powder : water) onto SSD concrete and place mortar wet-on-wet.
Bonding Slurry (Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido + water)Exposed Reinforcing Steel
Surface Preparation
Abrasive blast to bright metal to remove rust, scale, contaminants. Ensure clean steel and adequate cover in the repair design.
Primer Requirements
Anti-corrosion coating required
Coat prepared reinforcement prior to patching to inhibit further corrosion.
Mapefer or Mapefer 1KIndustrial Concrete Flooring
Surface Preparation
Remove loose/damaged concrete. Chisel patch edges square and provide minimum depth for interlock. Clean thoroughly; bring to SSD.
Primer Requirements
Bonding slurry recommended
Brush on slurry (1 : 0.24–0.25) to control suction; place mortar immediately and steel-float to finish.
Bonding Slurry (Mapegrout Fast-Set Rapido + water)Concrete Pipes (Assembly & Edge Repairs)
Surface Preparation
Clean mating surfaces; roughen glossy/latanced areas. SSD condition prior to placement.
Primer Requirements
No dedicated primer typically required
Use bonding slurry where high suction or difficult adhesion is expected.
Bonding Slurry (optional)Brick & Masonry (Pointing prior to Waterproofing)
Surface Preparation
Rake out weak material; clean dust/debris. Dampen to SSD to avoid rapid water loss. Fill joints and defects flush.
Primer Requirements
No primer typically required
Allow initial hardening before subsequent waterproofing (e.g., Planiseal systems) as per system instructions.
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