Avista - Wet Concrete - Powder Release Agent

Properties

Coverage

10 kg pail covers 60-80 m2 (subject to concrete and weather conditions).

Storage

Shelf life

24 months if kept unopened and stored in cool, dry conditions. After this time, product should be checked to ensure its suitability for use (no lumps).

Storage Conditions

Store in cool, dry area in unopened bag.

Application Instructions

See Avista Wet Concrete Colour Hardner Instructions for detailed stamp application method.

Powdered release agent

• Fluff up release agent using a mechanical drill and mixer as compacted material can cause ‘splash’ marks to appear on the concrete surface.
• Release agent is best applied by casting, using a long bristled brush immediately in front of area to be stamped.
• Do not trowel.

Important notes

• Application should be timed in relation to set of concrete and free surface water.
• If too wet, moisture can come through and affect the application and control of the moulds.
• Uneven application can lead to wet spots, giving pick up of the Powdered Release Agent on to the moulds. This gives an uneven colour pattern on the finished concrete.
• Any Powdered Release Agent sticking to the moulds has to be constantly cleaned to stop build up and severe uneven effects on the concrete.
• Moulds left on the same position for too long will cause water bleed.
• Excess Powdered Release Agent left adhering to the concrete can cause delamination of the sealer.

Removal of the powdered release agent

After stamping is complete and the concrete left for approximately 24 hours to harden, it is time to remove the excess Release Agent. It is most important that the excess be removed to help the sealer to adhere to the concrete surface and to minimise colour inconsistencies.

After at least 24 hours use a medium bristled broom and/or a hose to remove all excess release agent. A general purpose cleaner should be used. This loose material should be disposed of according to local requirements, and appropriate containment measures used to ensure contaminants do not enter the storm water system.

Acid washing the surface

Acid washing will aid in removal of excess release agent after initial cleaning.

• Allow 5 days after stamping before the application of acid to the surface.
• Use acid diluted to approximately 30:1 (water:acid)
• Apply diluted acid to surface using a large head watering can, applying in a criss cross motion. Immediately broom any excess Release Agent off.
• Pressure clean the surface to completely remove all acid solution and neutralise the surface. Ensure acid does not dry on the surface. Dried acid can cause staining and poor sealer adhesion and delamination.
• Always do a test patch with the acid to ensure that it does not etch the surface excessively.
• Always wear appropriate PPE when using acid.
• Washing release agent down storm water drains may damage the environment.
• Always use sand bags to dam the catchment area. A slurry pump can then be used to transfer to a suitable discharge point or container.

Sealing

Allow concrete to cure for minimum 14 days before cleaning and sealing.