Development and Application of a New Plasticizer for the Formulation of Self Leveling Underlayments with Improved Performance

A high performance self-leveling underlayment is expected to flow and level like water and then hardens rapidly to allow foot traffic in the shortest time possible after it is poured. The additives that are necessary to produce the self-leveling flow, retard the hydration and hardening of the cement. The key is to create a material that will promote the flow without retarding the set. This study investigates the mechanisms of deflocculation and the comparison of a natural deflocculatant, Casein, an electrostatic deflocculant and electrosteric deflocculation. The self- leveling underlayments are evaluated on flow, self- healing, time until ready for foot traffic and strength development