Abstract: Dry mix formulations containing a redispersible polymer powder (RDP) made of a low carboxylation, large particle size water-insoluble film—forming styrene butadiene polymer having at least one ethylenically unsaturated dicarboxylic acid monomer, and a high alumina content cement such as a calcium aluminate cement (CAC) or a calcium sulfoaluminate cement (CSA) provides cement compositions having unexpectedly superior water immersion shear strength and set time for a cement containing tile adhesive (CBTA or CTA), superior adhesion properties in water proofing mortars or mortar applications, and superior flexural and compressive strength in grout applications.