Help!

I have an existing concrete pad that we plan on increasing the size—on 2 sides (going from 10x12 to 15x14). We had considered tiling over the whole thing afterward so that it will all match—but was advised to lay the tile in a way that the grout lines over the expansion joints could be filled with an epoxy instead of grout. I cannot get all the expansion joint covered under this recommendation in this manner.

I would like to know if it is possible to lay ceramic tile over it, but without mortar. For example, can I lay out the tile over the concrete and then brush with sand to keep the tile tight? If this is possible, should I glue (maybe not the right word) down the perimeter tiles so the patio will not shift?

Or does anyone have any other ideas other than acid stain.

I live in Ohio

Laying the tile on concrete will not work. They will shift around when walked on, ice will get under them in the winter, all sorts of debris will get catch in the seams. An alternative would be to lay out your tile lines and then cut a new expansion joint where it would line up with the tile. Ceramic may not be the best choice for Ohio, porcelain tile would with stand your weather better.