Cement-based self-levelling mortar is a dry-mix mortar composed of special cement, aggregates, and multiple additives. When mixed with water, it forms a highly fluid slurry that rapidly self-levels under manual spreading assistance. Unlike water, which can flow over considerable distances, this material maintains a defined flowability (approximately 130 millimetres) and direction (flowing only from high to low points) within a specific timeframe (approximately 3-5 minutes, depending on ambient temperature). Beyond this period, flow ceases and setting commences.
Self-Levelling Mortar
02Material Composition and Typical Proportions
Binding Materials
Self-levelling cement/mortar primarily comprises high-alumina cement, ordinary Portland cement, and a-hemihydrate gypsum, accounting for 30–40% of the material.
Mineral Fillers and Setting Regulators
Mineral fillers primarily utilise quartz sand and calcium carbonate powder, accounting for 55–68%. These components enhance the material’s hardness and stability. Setting regulators adjust the material’s setting time; common examples include retarders such as tartaric acid and coagulant accelerators such as lithium carbonate.
Rheology modifiers and reinforcing components
Rheology modifiers improve the material’s workability, with components such as superplasticisers or water-reducing agents enhancing stability. Reinforcing components include redispersible polymer powders, which improve the material’s flowability, abrasion resistance, and strength.
03Additive Recommendations and Formulation
SIDLEYchem is a specialist additive manufacturer and supplier, offering expert product application guidance.
For self-levelling mortars, we recommend multiple products:
Superplasticizer
Defoamers
Water-retention suspending agents
Retarding agents
Polymer