The CrossLink Update:
LININGS – FLOORINGS – COATINGS – GROUTING & SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS – R&D
With winter in full swing, how do we continue to provide quality industrial epoxy coatings/flooring without compromising chemical resistance, bond/adhesion, cure time and finish? In a May 2012 article from the US Dept of the Interior ‘Reclamation’, “the substrate temperature at the time of (concrete) repair placement was found to have a significant effect on shear bond strength development…40°F…compared with 70°F.” Some low viscosity/low temperature cure epoxy coatings will cure to 30°F but uses a less chemically resistant formulation. Yet, these systems will cure relatively quickly and efficiently in low temperature environments. Whereas, standard epoxies at low temperatures do not cure completely and may take several days/ weeks to be solid enough for service. Further, epoxies, whether standard or low temperature cure, can be subject to amine blush resulting from cold conditions and subsequent moisture (humidity/condensation). So, in cold substrate conditions, it is important to prepare a rough textured and clean substrate mitigating moisture where possible. It is vitally important to understand the characteristics of the flooring/coating selected. Finally, it is important to match the coating/flooring systems to the specification of the project environment and the eventual long term usage/expectation(s).
Advanced Product Review: 100/150 LT (Low Temp Flooring/Coating)
The GPS 100/150 LT Flooring/Coating are engineered low temperature cure 100% solids epoxy flooring and coating systems with excellent chemical resistance as a result of unique CR(chemical resistant) hardeners. GPS 100/150 will efficiently at temperatures down to 30°F with cure times of approximately 18 hours “back in service” (varies with conditions).
