Concrete Neutralizer: A Surprising Key to Strong Buildings

To say that concrete is one of the most used and sought-after construction materials in the Philippines is quite an understatement. This mixture of cement, water, and aggregates like sand or gravel remains a reliable choice because of its strength, durability against changing environmental conditions, heat reflectivity, and versatility.

However, if you plan to use concrete for your project, remember that it requires meticulous attention, especially during application. Other elements, like the weather, the type of concrete, and most importantly, the surface you are working on, can affect the quality of the project’s outcome.

This is where the addition of a concrete neutralizer can make a difference. Learn the benefits of including this item in your project’s arsenal and how to properly use concrete neutralizer.

Understanding the Purpose of a Concrete Neutralizer

By its very definition, a concrete neutralizer is used to neutralize the alkalinity of walls or surfaces of newly plastered or poured concrete or after etching. A layer of concrete neutralizer ensures that the products or paints applied to the surface do not peel and stay on it for as long as possible.

But why is using a concrete neutralizer important anyway? To answer this question, take note that concrete is an alkaline substance, meaning its pH level is higher than 7. Industry experts note that freshly poured concrete’s pH levels are at a whopping 12 to 13. 

As soon as the concrete is exposed to air, it undergoes a process called carbonation. At this point, calcium hydroxide reacts with carbon dioxide in the air, resulting in the formation of calcium carbonate. This particular substance then lessens the pH levels of the concrete’s surface, bringing it closer to a neutral pH level of around 8.5. Moreover, a concrete surface that is dry and carbonated is often recommended for installing floors and is known for its adhesive performance.

What Happens if You Skip Concrete Neutralizer?

A concrete neutralizer can be used to reduce the high alkalinity of the concrete. Unneutralized concrete can cause the paint or coating job to fail. Even if it is known for its durability, concrete can still be subject to damage and degradation as time passes and no one takes proactive measures to ensure its durability. Skipping the application of concrete neutralizer can lead to several issues:

1. Poor Adhesion: The high alkalinity of unneutralized concrete can cause paint or coatings to fail to adhere improperly and ultimately lead to peeling or flaking.
2. Efflorescence: This is a white and powdery residue that can form on the surface and push off the paint or the coating. Unaddressed efflorescence can lead to concrete deterioration and weakening over time.
3. Color Changes: The alkalinity can cause discoloration or staining of the paint or coating. 
4. Reduced Durability: Without neutralization, the lifespan and durability of the paint or coating can be significantly reduced.

Overall, using a concrete neutralizer helps ensure a smoother, more durable, and longer-lasting finish. 

Choose a High-Quality Concrete Neutralizer Today

If you are working with concrete and are searching for a concrete neutralizer that gets the job done, check out Island Paints’ Island 400CN Concrete Neutralizer. 

This is a premium-grade concrete surface conditioner that comes in a highly concentrated format. Island 400CN Concrete Neutralizer neutralizes the highly alkaline state of new interior or exterior concrete surfaces, etches concrete, helps promote good paint adhesion, and lowers the risk of possible mapping and efflorescence. 

Island Paints’ Island 400CN Concrete Neutralizer can be applied using a brush, roller, or mop. Before applying this concrete neutralizer (or any similar product) to the surface, it should be diluted with clean water. 

The surface should also be cleaned, and traces of dirt, dust, adhesion barriers, loosely adherent grits, or cement mortar should be removed. If there are traces of oil or grease contaminants on the surface, dip a clean rag into a strong thinner to remove them from the surface. 

Lastly, using a concrete neutralizer (and other similar products) requires that you wear safety equipment like goggles, gloves, and face masks. These products typically contain chemicals or substances that can emit toxic fumes that can be harmful to your health.

How to Apply Concrete Neutralizer

Once your gear is set and you are certain that your project requires a concrete neutralizer, take note of this step-by-step guide regarding its application:

1. Use a brush, roller, or mop to apply a diluted solution of concrete neutralizer and water over the concrete or masonry surface until it is thoroughly wet. 
2. Leave the surface to dry or stand overnight. Brush loose and whitish residues that can appear on the surface.
3. Allot ample standby time to enhance the reaction of concrete and speed up its drying time. Leave 24 hours of standby time if conditions are warm, or two (2) or more days when the weather is cloudy. 
4. Once standby time is complete, inspect the surface for any traces of dust or dried-up neutralizer. If there are any, clean it thoroughly and let the surface dry again. 
5. If needed, apply your chosen primers or concrete paints.

After using the concrete neutralizer, tightly seal its container and store it in an area that is not above 35 degrees Celsius. Avoid disposing of the product with household garbage and follow government regulations when doing so. Lastly, see to it that the product does not reach the sewage system.

Hopefully, this guide has given you insights about this important item for concrete surfaces. Discover other ways to make the most of concrete surfaces and check out other home decorating tips here. With Island Chemicals, you can utilize concrete’s many advantages and ensure maximum durability for your projects in the years to come. 

References:

https://www.easymix-concrete.co.uk/news/why-is-concrete-such-a-popular-construction-material

https://www.ultratechcement.com/for-homebuilders/home-building-explained-single/descriptive-articles/what-is-concrete-types-composition-properties-and-uses

https://www.corrosionpedia.com/definition/neutralizer

https://www.wagnermeters.com/concrete-moisture-test/concrete-info/ph-rh-essential-to-flooring-success

https://www.capcitycutters.com/3-things-to-know-about-concrete-s-ph-value

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2238785423012899 https://www.floorexpert.com/knowledge-base/concrete-ph/