Critical analysis of residual water in self-leveling underlayment - Part Ⅰ: Study on model materials

摘要

A self-leveling underlayment is a thin layer used to smooth floors and has to contain a very low level of residual water prior to covering with the final coating. Therefore, the evaluation of residual water is a key point. The aim of this study is to compare two residual water evaluation techniques: the calcium carbide method (CCM) and oven drying at 40 degrees C. The following model materials are investigated: silica, gypsum, plaster, and ettringite. The CCM measurements provide an effective indicator of free water for silica and gypsum. Although not a field measurement, oven drying offers a reliable and truly representative measure of the residual water, regardless of the material used. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.