Tim Woolery
For silanes to work, they must penetrate the concrete. If the so…
Clean surface = better penetration
Surface preparation can be as simple as sweeping, but concrete should be as clean as possible before application. Therefore, specifications should also address surface preparation.
Sweeping, power-washing, blowing off the debris, and shotblasting are methods specified by various state DOTs. Shotblasting is by far the best because it removes all trapped dirt, grime, and rubber and opens up the pores of the concrete.
If power-washing is used, the surface must be allowed to dry for 48 hours before application.
States generally confirm application via visual inspection. To facilitate this, specifications can require that blue, green, or red fugitive dye be added to the silane formulation. The dye dissipates in five to seven days.
Weather affects application, as concrete must be clean and dry. Wait 48 hours after rain. Because frozen concrete inhibits penetration, apply only in above-freezing temperatures.
Tim Woolery is vice president of sales for Advanced Chemical Technologies Inc. Visit www.advchemtech.com; e-mail tim@advchemtech.com.
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