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HPMC for Self-Leveling Compound

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Brief Product Description

HPMC for self-leveling compound (SLC) is a low-to-medium viscosity cellulose ether grade that balances flow, water retention, and open time in gypsum- and cement-based self-leveling underlayments. It prevents bleeding and segregation while allowing the compound to spread and level under gravity to produce a flat, smooth surface.

Product Overview

EASONZELL™ HPMC grades for self-leveling underlayments are formulated to address the unique and seemingly contradictory requirements of SLC technology: the material must flow freely (high fluidity) yet retain enough water to allow cement or gypsum to hydrate fully, and must not segregate or bleed during the leveling process.

Low-viscosity HPMC grades (5,000–30,000 mPa·s) are preferred for SLC applications, as high-viscosity grades would restrict flow and defeat the self-leveling purpose. Our SLC grades are carefully controlled for consistent viscosity and dissolution speed, ensuring reproducible flow table spread values and surface flatness (tolerance of ±3 mm per 2 m straightedge per EN 13813).

Specification

ParameterTypical Value / RangeTest Method
AppearanceWhite to off-white powderVisual
Viscosity (2% aq., 20°C)5,000 – 30,000 mPa·sASTM D2364
Methoxy Content28 – 30%Titration
Hydroxypropoxy Content7 – 12%Titration
Moisture Content≤ 5.0%ISO 585
Gel Temperature58 – 68°CCloud point
Flow Table Spread (SLC system)≥ 260 mm at W/P 0.22EN 12706
Recommended Dosage in SLC0.05 – 0.2% of dry mix—

Application

EASONZELL™ HPMC for self-leveling compound is used in:

  • Cement-based SLC (CT-C20-F7 per EN 13813) — used as underlayment before installation of ceramic tiles, parquet, carpet, or vinyl flooring.
  • Gypsum-based SLC (CA-C16-F5 per EN 13813) — faster setting and lighter weight, suitable for renovation projects.
  • Skim coat systems — very thin (1–3 mm) smooth finish layer over concrete slabs.
  • Industrial floor underlayment — large-area applications in commercial and industrial buildings requiring a flat, load-bearing surface.

Usage notes: In SLC, HPMC dosage must be carefully controlled — too much creates excessive viscosity and poor flow; too little results in water bleeding and surface segregation. Always optimize dosage with flow table spread tests at your target water-to-powder ratio.

Advantages

  • Optimized for SLC flow — low-viscosity grades allow unrestricted self-leveling while preventing water segregation.
  • Controlled water retention — prevents bleeding and ensures complete binder hydration without restricting flow.
  • Consistent batch performance — tight viscosity tolerance (±10%) ensures reproducible spread values across production batches.
  • Compatible with RDP — works synergistically with redispersible polymer powder to improve surface hardness and crack resistance in the cured compound.
  • Suitable for gypsum and cement systems — a single grade can be qualified for both binder types, simplifying procurement.
  • Improved surface flatness — supports consistent flatness tolerance required by EN 13813 for flooring underlayment.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: Why is a low-viscosity HPMC grade needed for self-leveling compounds?
  • A: High-viscosity HPMC creates excessive gel strength in the wet compound, which resists the gravity-driven flow needed for self-leveling. Low-viscosity grades provide enough structure to retain water and suspend filler particles, without creating a viscosity barrier to flow. The target is typically a flow table spread of 260–320 mm at the design water-to-powder ratio.
  • Q: What causes surface cracks in self-leveling compound?
  • A: Cracks in SLC typically result from excessive water evaporation (insufficient water retention), too-thin application (below minimum layer thickness), or poor compatibility between the SLC and the substrate. Increasing HPMC dosage slightly, adding RDP, or priming the substrate can each help address cracking.
  • Q: Can HPMC be used together with superplasticizer in SLC?
  • A: Yes. In cement-based SLC, polycarboxylate-based superplasticizers are commonly used alongside HPMC. The superplasticizer primarily drives fluidity at low water content, while HPMC controls water retention and prevents segregation. The two additives are complementary rather than competing.
  • Q: What minimum application thickness is suitable for HPMC-containing SLC?
  • A: Minimum thickness depends on the specific SLC formulation, but 5–10 mm is typical for cement-based systems and 3–8 mm for gypsum-based systems. Below these thresholds, water retention requirements increase and cracking risk rises. Always follow the formulation's design data sheet for minimum thickness.
  • Q: Is delayed dissolution HPMC necessary for SLC dry-mix bags?
  • A: Delayed dissolution (surface-treated) HPMC is preferred for pre-bagged SLC dry mixes because it prevents premature hydration during factory blending and allows uniform dry powder blending. Instant-dissolving grades are suitable only if the HPMC is added separately at the mixing stage.
  • Q: Does HPMC affect the compressive strength of cured SLC?
  • A: At recommended dosage levels (below 0.2%), HPMC has negligible impact on compressive strength of the cured SLC. Higher dosages may slightly reduce strength due to water retention effects. For structural floor systems, verify compressive strength meets EN 13813 class requirements with your target dosage.

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About Us
Zhejiang Yisheng New Material Co., Ltd.
Zhejiang Yisheng New Material Co., Ltd. is a professional enterprise engaged in the design, development, manufacturing, application, and sales of cellulose ether, located in the Shangyu Economic and Technological Development Zone, part of the Hangzhou Bay National Industrial Park. With a core concept of safety, environmental protection, and sustainable development, the company boasts an annual production capacity of 15,000 tons of cellulose ether, offering a complete range of products including HEC (hydroxyethylcellulose), HEMC (hydroxyethyl methylcellulose), and HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose). Our products serve various sectors such as oil fields, coatings, dry powder mortar, cosmetics, personal care products, medicine, and many others. Yisheng has a global presence, providing stable cellulose ethers and services to customers worldwide.
As a professional China HPMC for Self-Leveling Compound Supplier and HPMC for Self-Leveling Compound Company, The company adheres to the principles of safety and environmental protection as the foundation of its development. It implements and further consolidates safety and environmental protection measures, striving to create green and environmentally friendly production processes, safe and effective control systems, and orderly production management. This approach lays a solid foundation for the company's sustainable development. Yisheng boasts a scientific management mechanism, a comprehensive quality management system, stringent product testing methods, advanced technology, state-of-the-art equipment, and high-quality after-sales service.
Zhejiang Yisheng New Material Co., Ltd.

+86-18067879812
Zhejiang Yisheng New Material Co., Ltd.

sarah@ys-cellulose.com
Zhejiang Yisheng New Material Co., Ltd.