Abstract Semi-flexible pavement has been widely used for good performance, however, few studies have been made on effects of composition and formulation on grouting material. Therefore, this paper focuses on effects of composition and formulation on two typical grouting materials, including cement paste and cement mortar. The optimal formulations of these two materials are determined, and their performances are compared in terms of fluidity, strength and drying shrinkage. The result shows that fluidity, strength and drying shrinkage of cement paste and cement mortar vary with their composition, and both of the two materials can meet the technical requirements in the appropriate formulations. Comparatively, cement paste with its optimal formulation is more suitable as a grouting material for its better performance. The optimal ratio of water to cement is 0.58, the coal ash accounts for 10% and mineral powder accounts for 10%.