Applications of Gypsum Self-Leveling Mortar


Release Time:

2021-07-05

Source:

Gypsum self-leveling mortar

Applications of Gypsum Self-Leveling Mortar

α-Hemihydrate gypsum produced from desulfurization gypsum is used as the primary raw material to manufacture gypsum-based self-leveling mortar. The results demonstrate that this newly developed self-leveling mortar not only exhibits excellent flowability, rapid drying, high early strength, resistance to drying shrinkage, and ease of construction, but also enables the extensive utilization of desulfurization gypsum—a by-product waste from power plants—thereby contributing to environmental protection. This type of gypsum-based self-leveling mortar can be widely applied for leveling indoor floor surfaces, particularly in underfloor heating systems, with a single-pass leveling thickness of up to approximately 60 mm. It is anticipated that this kind of gypsum-based self-leveling mortar will enjoy very broad application prospects in the domestic market.

Gypsum-based self-leveling mortar is a specialized dry-mix mortar for floor leveling, meticulously formulated in the factory from gypsum binders, engineered aggregates, and a range of architectural chemical additives, and thoroughly blended to ensure uniformity. Under normal conditions, this type of mortar can be directly mixed on site with water—either mechanically or by hand—to produce a self-flowing slurry that automatically levels itself. It is suitable for leveling indoor floor surfaces, filling unevenness, fine voids, and cracks, and is widely used for preparing substrates prior to the installation of carpet, PVC flooring, wood flooring, and other floor coverings. It is particularly well-suited for use with underfloor heating systems, whether hydronic or electric.

Shrinkage rate
The performance characteristics of the two types of mortar are very similar; however, to achieve the required flowability, self-leveling mortar typically requires a significantly higher water content than conventional mortar. In self-leveling mortar, this excess water evaporates into the air; if this evaporation occurs too rapidly, it can lead to substantial shrinkage, resulting in cracking. By contrast, this phenomenon does not occur in gypsum-based self-leveling mortar.