Design and Application Guide For Flooring and Wall Systems

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Design and application guide

for flooring and wall systems

How, when or what do I need to apply a resin flooring system?

This is one of the areas or aspects of resin flooring systems about which we get most questions.

Therefore we have produced this short “Design and application guide for flooring and wall systems” to
assist you, our customers, their clients and professional construction consultants in making the right
applications with the right tools, in taking surface application and substrate preparation decisions, and in
successfully completing resin flooring projects.

Table of content:

1. Substrate – General 5.3 Top coats


1.1 Substrate overview 5.4 Auxiliary materials
1.2 Suitable substrates for flooring application 5.4.1 Aggregates
5.4.2 Rubber rolls – MAT
2. Joints – General 5.4.3 Decorative chips
2.1 Expansion joints 5.4.4 Fiberglass mesh
2.2 Isolation joints 5.4.5 Copper tape
2.3 Contraction joints
6. Application, tools and method statements
3. Substrate preparation – General 6.1 Application
3.1 Substrate requirements 6.1.1 Application method – General
3.2 Substrate preparation overview 6.1.2 Broadcasting the aggregate
6.1.3 Possible problems
4. Before application – General 6.1.4 Consumption
4.1 Repairs to concrete floor defects 6.1.5 Processing
4.2 Crack repairs in concrete floors 6.1.6 Protection measures
4.3 Concrete floor joint and edge repairs 6.1.7 Hazardous material information
4.4 Substrate testing 6.1.8 Shelf life
4.4.1 Residual humidity content 6.2 Seamless transition from floors to walls
4.4.2 Tensile strength testing 6.3 Wall systems
4.4.3 Compressive strength testing 6.3.1 MASTERTOP WS 300 PU – application
4.4.4 Environmental condition measurements instructions
4.4.5 Surface regularity
4.5 Checklist prior to application 7. General notes on colours
4.6 Application protocol
8. Tools and suppliers
5. Materials – Products and systems: General
5.1 Primers 9. Glossary / Definitions / Abbreviations
5.2 Body coats
10. Annexes

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
If any aspect of the required surface application, substrate and substrate preparation, application and cleaning
methods is however not clear for you and your project, please contact us and we will be more than happy to
assist you.

1. Substrate - General

1.1 An overview of substrate quality for resin eventually creating a robust stone-like material. The
flooring system application main properties and composition of the concrete slab
are as follows:
Generally substrate quality and substrate preparation,
prior to applying any resin flooring system, is a matter
of common sense – provided that you understand and
consider the resin flooring materials, the substrate and
its surface condition, together with the performance
and durability requirements of our resin floor system.

From the point of view of structural design of the


substrate, whether is concrete slab or screed, the
main function of the resin flooring system is to provide
a protective finish.

The substrate should therefore be designed


independently of the flooring to withstand all
structural, thermal and mechanical stresses and loads
which will occur during service. It should remain
stable whilst protected by the resin flooring and be
provided with all necessary expansion, contraction
and crack inducement joints to enable it to do so.
Failure of the substrate to remain stable will invariably
affect the stability of the finish.

In particular, cracking of the substrate, however


caused, is likely to reflect in the finish. The surface
strength of the base concrete or fine concrete or
polymer-modified cement screed should be sufficient
to restrain any stresses which occur during the setting
and hardening of the resin flooring system.

1.2 Suitable substrates for resin flooring system


application

The most common substrate type used for resin


flooring systems application is:

• Concrete
Concrete is a composite construction material,
composed of cement (commonly Portland cement)
and other cementitious materials such as fly ash and
slag cement, aggregate (generally a coarse aggregate
made of gravel or crushed rocks such as limestone, or
granite, plus a fine aggregate such as sand), water
and chemical admixtures.

Concrete solidifies and hardens after mixing with


water and placement due to a chemical process
known as hydration. The water reacts with the
cement, which bonds the other components together,

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
• Concrete/ cementitious screed

Screeds and toppings are commonly used as a means


of providing smooth flat floors in residential,
commercial and industrial buildings. Toppings may
also be used to increase the structural depth and
strength of the base slab. Usually a screed is a layer
of well compacted material, commonly a mixture of
cement and fine aggregate, that is applied to a base
at the appropriate thickness and that has a surface
suitable for receiving a floor finish.

The most common types of screeds and toppings are:


In attempting to achieve good adhesion between
1. Monolithic screeds and toppings which are applied screed/ topping and base concrete, it is important to
to the floor while the concrete in the base is still in a take cognisance of the phenomenon of bleeding of
plastic state. fresh concrete. Bleeding causes water to accumulate
on the top surface of the fresh concrete and the
2. Bonded screeds and toppings which are applied to presence of this water layer may impair adhesion
hardened concrete floors. unless suitably dealt with.

3. Un-bonded screeds and toppings which are used


when it is impossible to ensure a good bond between
floor and screed or topping. In this case the screed or
topping is separated from the floor by insulation
boards or an impervious membrane.

• Monolithic screeds and toppings

As defined above, these are screeds and toppings


The screed/topping should therefore be laid at one of
that are applied at the time when the underlying
two stages:
concrete floor is placed.
- either immediately the concrete has been
Screed thickness should be approximately 25 mm but
compacted and levelled off and before bleed water
not less than 15 mm or more than 40 mm. The
appears on the surface (“immediate placing”);
minimum thickness of a monolithic topping at any part
- or after bleeding of the concrete has ceased and
should be 20 mm. The actual thickness required may
bleed water has evaporated or has been removed
depend on structural requirements. In some
completely by mopping up (“delayed placing”).
circumstances, the design thickness of a topping may
Immediate placing requires careful timing but has the
have to be increased to more than 40 mm, but then
advantage that no preparation of the concrete surface
there will be an increasing risk of loss of adhesion to
is required.
the base, due to differential shrinkage stresses.
Timing of delayed placing is not as critical but the
surface of the concrete does require some
preparation: laitance should be loosened by light
brushing, with a wire brush or a brush with stiff
bristles, and thoroughly removed by sweeping, or
preferably, by vacuum cleaning. Delayed placing
should, however, be done within an hour or two of the
end of the bleeding period.

• Bonded screeds & toppings

As defined previously, bonded screeds and toppings


are applied to hardened concrete. The hardened
concrete is also known as the base concrete. Screed
thickness should be not less than 25 mm or more than
50 mm. The minimum thickness of a bonded topping
at any part should be 35 mm. The actual thickness

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
required may depend on structural requirements. In shrinkage. They are also suitable for use with under-
some circumstances, the design thickness of a floor heating as long as pipes/elements are covered
topping may have to be increased to more than 60 by a minimum of 25 mm. However, the applicator
mm, but then there will be an increasing risk of loss of must be aware of the potential problems listed below:
adhesion to the base due to differential shrinkage
stresses. - Anhydrite screeds may be difficult to identify
- Anhydrite has a weak surface layer
In these circumstances, the use of a reinforcing mesh
as close to the upper surface as is permissible will
assist in restraining differential shrinkage and in
controlling cracking.

• Non-bonded screeds & toppings

Where screeds are, or have to be laid on a damp-


proofing membrane or separating layer, the minimum
thickness of the screed should be at least 50 mm.
Where they are laid on a compressible layer, such as
insulation boards, the minimum thickness should be
at least 70 mm. Where a concrete topping is required
over a damp-proof membrane, an un-bonded overlay
of minimum 100 mm thickness should be used in
order to minimise the risk of curling. A similar un-
bonded overlay should be used where a base has
become contaminated (e.g. with oil), and bonding is
not possible.

The concrete used for an overlay intended to support


a high strength concrete topping should have a 28-
day compressive strength of at least 35 MPa.

• Anhydrite and magnesite screeds

Anhydrite screeds are made from inert fillers such as


sand, with a binder system based on calcium
sulphate. Consequently they can look very similar to a
sand/cement screed.
Anhydrite will tend to appear lighter, sometimes
almost white, but in practice it is difficult to identify an
existing anhydrite screed from a traditional one.
When a cement based screed or repair mortar is
Generally these surfaces are regarded as difficult or
applied directly onto the floor, cement in the mortar or
problematic; therefore prior to any coating application
screed reacts with the gypsum in the anhydrite screed
they must be carefully inspected and treated or
resulting in a mineral called ettringite being formed at
prepared in an appropriate manner. The pull off
the interface. The associated structural change is
strength of the magnesia surface must be > 1.5
sufficient to cause a complete de-bond of the
N/mm2, and > 2 N/mm2 for anhydrite / gypsum. We
cementitious screed or repair mortar from the screed
recommend first applying a test area. Please ask for
base.
our advice.
• Asphalt screed
Anhydrite and Magnesite are not hydraulic binders
and will soften with water or moisture, which will lead
to screed failure. Although they cannot be used Over the past decades the use of mastic asphalt
externally or in damp or wet conditions, anhydrite screeds has become established as a common
(calcium sulphate) screeds have become quite construction method. Mastic asphalt is a
common as they offer benefits over sand/cement thermoplastic material. Its resistance to indentation
screeds. They are relatively easy to lay, cheap, fast- will be reduced with increase in temperature.
setting, pumpable, self-levelling and offer minimal

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Mastic asphalt is normally applied between 15 and 20 resin flooring applicator. Such cases must be treated
mm thickness and sets to a dense hard mass which is individually and differently, because each old floor had
impermeable to moisture and therefore forms an an original purpose and presents certain
efficient damp-proof membrane. Mastic asphalt is particularities. It is incorrect to say that the existing
often applied over an existing concrete base which substrate must be removed entirely and replaced
lacks a conventional DPM. Asphalt contains bitumen with a new one before application of a resin flooring
as a binder, which is soft and pliable. system. It is very true that new substrates are
High temperatures and heavy loads will lead to creep preferred, but even an old floor can become attractive!
of the screed.
Amongst the commonest types of old flooring needing
covering are:

- Ceramic substrates
- Various types of tiles
- Linoleum
- PVC
- Mosaic
- Existing epoxy or polyurethane flooring systems.

Prior to application onto industrial mastic asphalt or


latex, the substrate must be checked and compared
with the expected performance characteristics for
load and impact. The strength (possible deformation)
of the asphalt must meet the stated requirements: a 2
– 3 mm coating cannot change a soft asphalt surface
In this guide we will not go into detail for each type of
into a hard one! The surface must be prepared by shot
substrate, the proper method of substrate
blasting, grinding and / or scarifying (preferred)
followed by a second preparation – diamond grinding; preparation, suitable substrate testing methods or
a minimum of 50 % of the filler aggregates must be suitable repair methods. Instead we would encourage
exposed. Voids and blow holes, soft areas and you to contact us each time you meet with such a
deformations must be removed and prepared with situation.
appropriate repair fillers. We also recommend first
applying a test area and examining the result when 2. Joints – General
the test area is cured.
Concrete, like other construction materials, expands
• Old substrates and contracts with moisture and temperature
changes. These volume changes may produce cracks
Frequently refurbishment, restoration and in hardened concrete unless they are properly
reconditioning works represent a challenge for any controlled. Provision for volume changes at

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
predetermined locations prevents a concentration of Three types of joints can be distinguished:
crack-producing stresses.
a. Expansion (setting) joints
Such provisions are termed control relief joints. b. Isolation joints
Adequately designed and constructed, these joints c. Contraction joints
serve to eliminate unsightly random surface cracks
(which detract aesthetically from any type of surface)
by gathering, distributing and dissipating stress forces
resulting from temperature and moisture variations.

Lack of, or inadequate, control joints can produce


unsightly and damaging cracking. If control joints are
to be effective, and perform their intended function,
they must be located and installed correctly.

a. Expansion joints cut the slab completely in a


vertical direction, so the cut parts can move
independently.
Expansion joints have 2 functions: different vertical
movement of parts of the structure and horizontal
movement due to temperature extension/contraction.

An example for the design of an expansion setting


joint can be found in the following technical drawing.

Isolation joint at walls Joint details

Is there adequate provision for any required


movement joints in the deck to accommodate thermal
movement, dynamic loading and any other anticipated
structural movement?
How have the day work/construction/isolation joints in
the concrete decks been formed and previously
treated? Are these all securely and safely sealed for
the future, or is additional joint pre-treatment and
sealing required?
Joints at columns
Before starting the application of resin flooring system
the questions addressed above should be carefully b. Isolation joints must be installed at fixed parts
reviewed. (walls, columns...) over the full thickness of the slab.
They are to be filled with a compressive material.

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
c. Contraction joints are cut in the fresh slab, 1 to 2 1. Resin flooring systems should generally only be
days after pouring. The joints are cut to ¼ - ⅓ of the applied to dry concrete or cement screed surfaces
thickness of the slab, upper reinforcement is to be (unless the product/system is specifically designed for
cut. The saw cut must be 3 - 5 mm wide. damp/wet substrates).

2. Any dirt or loose/friable materials must be removed.

3. Any surface contaminants such as oil, grease or


floor polish residue etc. must be removed.

4. Any existing old, de-bonded, loose or flaking floor


paint or deteriorated resin flooring materials must be
removed before any new type of resin flooring can be
applied. However firmly adhering, sound existing
flooring systems may be over-coated, but only with an
appropriate resin flooring system; which type of resin
floor system is acceptable for this over-coating
depends on the type of the existing flooring system
and your future performance requirements.

5. On new fully-hardened concrete and cement


screed surfaces any curing agent residues or any
cement laitance must always be removed. The
concrete or cement screed substrates must be
sufficiently thick, sound and strong enough to meet
your service requirements. As an example, in
commercial facilities a compressive strength of at
least 25 MPa and a pull-off strength of at least 1,5
N/mm² (tested with a Herion adhesion tester or similar
device at a pull rate of 100 N/s.) is recommended; this
is not normally a problem for new floors, but the
strength and condition of existing concrete floors
should always be checked.

By following these relatively few and simple rules you


can be assured of a successful resin flooring job.

3.2 An overview of substrate preparation prior to


Details of a contraction joint in a flooring design: the application of a resin flooring system
1. Reinforced concrete slab
2. MASTERTOP flooring system
3. Wire mesh / welded wire mesh / rebar
4. Spacer reinforcement
5. PE foil, thickness 0.2 mm
6. Saw cut, width 3 – 5 mm, depth ¼ to ⅓ of slab
thickness, upper reinforcement must be cut
7. Elastic joint filler MASTERFLEX 474
8. Stabilised substrate (e.g. lean concrete)

3. Substrate preparation - General


The surface preparation requirements can be
3.1 Substrate requirements for resin flooring
considered in the same logical way with concrete
system application:
floors. If you are going to expose your resin floor
system to heavy and frequent foot traffic, or any kind
There are a few simple rules that should therefore of wheeled/vehicular traffic, then it makes sense to
always be followed for successful resin flooring system carry out some form of surface cleaning and substrate
application: preparation to ensure it can be successfully applied

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
and will remain securely bonded to the concrete walls, columns or other fixed obstructions. Additional
substrate. mechanical methods must be used to supplement
preparation for areas not within reach of the shot
The level and effort of substrate preparation required blasting equipment. Any contaminants which remain
is directly related to its existing condition, plus the after shot blasting may require chemical removal, as
type of resin floor to be installed, and the intended described above.
future traffic and exposure or loading for the new resin
floor.

In this situation, it is common sense that the best and


most suitable preparation requirements for the resin
flooring system should be fully evaluated, otherwise
its bond to the concrete surface will not be sufficiently
durable to withstand any similar severe exposure.
Mechanical preparation:

a. Shot blasting

This is the process of blasting a concrete surface with


steel shot (small steel balls) at a high velocity. This
removes contamination and laitance (soft concrete) to
reveal a mechanical profile for improved bonding. The
concrete dust is recovered by a powerful dust
collection system. As the recommended method of
surface preparation, steel shot blasting:

- eliminates the use of harsh, environmentally Metal abrasive (steel shot or small metal balls) thrown
unfriendly chemicals and leaves the concrete floor by the rapidly rotating blast wheel is accelerated
with the desired profile. towards the surface being prepared. The media
strikes the surface and rebounds, along with removed
- is known for high production rates, blast pattern
contaminants, into a recovery chamber or separator.
accuracy, and wide abrasive selection.
The dust collector removes pulverized abrasive, dust,
- lends itself to efficient disposal of dust and other and contaminants. Very little abrasive is lost and the
contaminants. usable media is returned to the storage hopper for
recirculation by the blast wheel. Different surface
- can be performed indoors or outdoors. profiles can be achieved by varying shot size, shot
flow rate and machine travel speed.

Shot blasting using steel shot and self-contained


abrasive blasting equipment is the preferred method
of mechanical preparation. Shot blasting should be Despite being a very efficient substrate preparation
performed so as to leave clean, "white" concrete with method, there are few things to remember:
a uniform stipple finish. This method is generally
limited to horizontal surfaces not within 10 – 15 cm of

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
• Shot blasting may remove too much
concrete, especially with soft concrete or
inexperienced operators.

• Some older machines leave overlap marks


requiring extra material or fill.

• Shot blasters may have difficulty removing


flexible or soft materials as well as high
build coatings and surface hardeners.
b. Mechanical grinding/Diamond grinding

This type of machine was one of the most widely used


types of mechanical floor preparation equipment, but These machines and their variety of diamond,
it lost market share with the improved development of carborundum and synthetic grinding heads are in fact
vacuum shot blasting machines. The main reasons the best equipment to use if the floors to be prepared
were that the latter have greater speed and uniformity are wet or damp (vacuum shot blasting machines do
of finish, in addition to technical arguments that not work well on damp/wet concrete surfaces), if the
grinding can force dust into the surface pores and surfaces are uneven and profiled (the grinding action
thus create an ‘integral de-bonding agent’ or even also increases uniformity and reduces any excessive
‘polish’ the concrete surface and reduce the profiles that would adversely reflect through a floor
subsequent adhesion of a resin floor system. paint or relatively thin resin flooring); or if old residues
of elastomeric coatings, bituminous material or
In recent years, however the grinding machine flexible/elastic adhesive residues are present, such as
manufacturers have also progressed and developed those used for some floor tiles or vinyl products
efficient vacuum floor grinding machines with different (vacuum shot blasting does not remove these
grinding ‘heads’; certainly on small to medium sized materials very well as the impact of the shot is
projects up to a few hundred square metres, these deflected or absorbed by such materials.)
can provide an efficient and cost effective solution.
Generally wire brush ‘heads’ should be avoided for As a guide, up to 500 - 1000m² per day can be readily
this purpose as they do tend to polish dense floor achieved with floor grinding, depending on the type of
surfaces. machine and floor condition, access, etc..
Good mechanical grinding machinery manufacturers
include HTC (Sweden), Asuga (Denmark) and Klindex-
Chemspec (Italy).

Sanding, or surface abrasion with heavy grit media is


often used to reach corners and edges in conjunction
with shot blasting. It is also useful when recoating
sound epoxy surfaces to improve intercoat bonding
when removal down to subsurface is not required or
desired.

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Sandblasting, or use of other pneumatically impelled
abrasive media, is another acceptable method of
preparing both vertical and horizontal surfaces.

Care must be taken to provide a uniformly textured


surface. All spent abrasive media and loosened
concrete particles must be carefully removed
following blasting using vacuum and brushes.
d. Acid etching
c. Scarifying

Scarifying, using motorized scarification equipment, Acid etching of concrete floors is not recommended.
generally incorporating rotating banks of hardened, This is primarily for a combination of health,
star-shaped steel teeth, is particularly useful when environmental and floor durability reasons, because
high build-ups of soft material must be removed. the concentrated and diluted acids used (normally
hydrochloric/muriatic or phosphoric acids) are all
These may include asphalt adhesives or mastics,
extremely dangerous in transport, handling and
elastomeric coatings which do not respond to shot
application in the home or on site, particularly with the
blasting, or unsound thin cementitious overlayments.
large quantities required to etch a concrete floor.
Scarifying generally leaves a more deeply scarred
subsurface, which must then be levelled in the course Hazards arise both from potential direct acid contact
of overlayment if a uniform finish is to be achieved. with skin and eyes, and also the risk of breathing
unknown fumes when it reacts and attacks the
Scarifying may result in incomplete removal of concrete surface and any contaminants in or on the
penetrated materials, and must then be supplemented surface.
by other chemical or mechanical processes.
The vapours will therefore depend on the precise type
of ‘dirt or contamination’ on the floor and how it reacts
with the acid.

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
appropriately to ensure there will be no contamination
or adverse future cracking of the resin floor system.

4.1 Repairs to concrete floor surface defects and


damage

Repairs can be required to surface damage in


concrete floors for many different reasons, including
defects in the original concreting work, i.e.
honeycombing, voids, unsuitable aggregates such as
‘mudstone’ pop-outs, inadequate surface finishing or
curing, etc.. Damage to concrete floor surfaces can
also be caused by impact, wear, abrasion or chemical
exposure and attack during service.

In addition, it is almost impossible to adequately


reclaim, neutralise and safely dispose of the large
volume of liquid residue. It is illegal to allow any of this
waste water to enter the drainage system.

Finally, the acid will of course also penetrate any


cracks or joints in the concrete floor and therefore
attack stanchions, machine fixings or steel
reinforcement, causing accelerated steel corrosion,
and also attack any steel plant or equipment on the
floor.

Effective acid etching also requires the concrete to be


absolutely saturated before the acid application,
followed by multiple rinsing with clean water to
remove it. The calcareous and other soluble salts
produced by the acid reacting with the concrete
surface are also inevitably left in the concrete; these
can subsequently cause osmotic blistering or de-
bonding and de-lamination of resin floors, even
several weeks or months later and after completion of
what may have initially seemed to be a successful job. The first requirement with all damage to concrete floor
surfaces that are to receive a new resin flooring
system is to establish the cause and extent of the
4. Before application - General damage, and then to mechanically break out and
remove any unsound or weak concrete, always
Prior to applying any resin flooring system, it is always ensuring that any voids in the slab and/or any areas of
necessary to first carry out repairs to any visible honeycombing are fully exposed.
damage or cracks in the concrete floor surface,
The best method for concrete floor repairs will depend
otherwise they will be reflected through the new resin
on the size and depth of repair required, the type of
floor finish and become even more visible.
resin flooring system to be installed, the future
The nature (i.e. moving or non-moving) and the cause exposure and performance required of the floor, the
of any cracks or damaged joints arising in the time available and the environmental conditions at the
concrete floor must also be considered and treated time. Basically sound concrete floor repairs can be

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
made with cement based mortars or epoxy resin
based mortars.

A full range of concrete floor repair products, a range


of various pre-batched cement and rapid-hardening
cement-based repair mortars for varying thicknesses
and areas, and a full range of epoxy resin-based
concrete floor repair products are all available from
BASF.
Whatever surface damage has happened on the
Larger, thicker areas of damaged floors are usually concrete floor, we can therefore provide detailed
repaired with cement based products, providing there repair recommendations and application instructions,
is sufficient time for them to harden and cure to an together with all of the necessary materials.
acceptable moisture level for the resin flooring system
selected. If time is short, then rapid-hardening 4.2 Crack repairs in concrete floors
cement-based products, or even faster hardening
epoxy resin repair mortars can be used. Cracks in concrete floors can be caused by a number
of individual construction problems, or a combination
Epoxy resin repair mortars are much more expensive, of different reasons including concrete shrinkage,
but generally the new resin flooring system can go building movement or settlement, machine vibration
ahead the very next day, whilst with almost all cement or excessive loading, and inadequate or incorrect joint
mortars, at least 7 days will be required before they or slab design and construction.
can be over-coated with the resin floor materials. To successfully repair cracks and effectively seal
cracks in concrete floors, it is important to understand
Technically this is because of a combination of the exact reason for the crack and also whether any
reasons – time to dry and harden, time for the mortar further crack movement will occur.
to reach an acceptably low moisture content, plus the This can obviously be a technical matter, and a
time required for the surface alkalinity of the mortar to qualified structural engineer should normally be
be neutralised (by natural atmospheric carbonation). involved to determine this. It is especially important to
do this as early as possible on new construction
projects, in order to determine the correct remedial
action.

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
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BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207Schaffhausen, lndustriestrasse 26,Tel: +41 58 958 2551,Fax: +41 58 958 3621
1. 1.

2. 2.

3.
3.
Alternatively, where advised by the structural
a. Repairing moving cracks in concrete floors engineer, crack repairs can be achieved by structural
bonding with low pressure epoxy resin injection
If the cracks are still likely to be subject to future products, such as the BASF – “Concresive” product
movement, then they should normally be treated as range.
joints, cut square, brought through the floor finish and
sealed with an appropriate floor joint sealant such as 4.3 Concrete floor joint and edge repairs
“Masterflex”.
Floor movement joints in new construction should
b. Repairing non-moving cracks in concrete floors normally be sealed with an appropriate joint sealant
(with the correct movement capability) after the floor
If the structural engineer assesses that a crack is no finish has been applied.
longer moving, it may be repaired and sealed prior to
applying the new resin flooring system. The best Existing movement joints in existing concrete floor
procedure and materials for doing this depend on the slabs should also be brought through the new resin
width, depth and length of the crack. It is likely that flooring system, depending on the nature of the
the surface will need opening/cutting out to remove existing sealant, i.e. bitumen and elastic polysulphide
any loose materials and then it can be either 'surface or silicone sealants cannot be over-coated with resin
sealed' with a fine epoxy mortar, such as Mastertop flooring materials.
resin and silica quartz sand mixture, pressed into the
crack. If the joint edges are broken or the existing sealant
has deteriorated and failed, the joints should be cut
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out and repaired prior to applying the new resin floor. Simply stated, all moving joints in the slab including
High-strength epoxy resin mortars are usually the best expansion and isolation joints must be maintained and
materials for durable joint edge repairs, because of should not be over-coated with resin flooring system.
the high dynamic loads that can be imposed on the They are integral to the construction and movement of
edges of the joints. the building and must not be contained. Isolation can
be accomplished by filling the joints with foam or
creating an edge barrier. Such joints include isolation
and expansion joints.

4.4 Substrate testing – What to check before


application?

For most commercial and industrial, light to medium


traffic applications, the three most important criteria
are ensuring that the concrete or cement screed is
fully cured, hard and dry, and ensuring that the
surface is finished correctly.
The best type of replacement joint sealant depends on
the type of material used for the failed existing joint
sealant, i.e. various joint sealant types can be
incompatible with the same or other joint sealing
materials, which means that they will not bond with
the previous sealant residue on the joint sides. This is
a particular problem with old bituminous sealants in
joints, which requires specialist removal and
treatment.

Mastertop epoxy resin mortars are ideally suited to


repair joint edges, together with the Masterflex
product range - a full range of floor joint sealants,
based on all available joint sealing material types.

The Masterflex product range consists of high


performance, easily applied, chemically resistant,
elastic, single or bi-component, gun-applied or self-
levelling polyurethane resin-based floor joint sealants,
which are ideal for solving a number of floor jointing
problems. Below are listed some of the tests and their detailed
descriptions:

4.4.1 Residual humidity content

The moisture content of a concrete floor or cement


screed is a very important factor in achieving a
successful resin flooring job. This applies to both new
and existing floors and relates to the original excess
concrete mix water, i.e. the water content of the fresh
concrete that must be allowed to evaporate; or
alternatively the presence and integrity (or not) of an
adequate Damp Proof Membrane (DPM) beneath the
slab.

This also means that generally a concrete floor slab


must always be a minimum of 28 days old before any
vapour-tight resin flooring can be applied. This is only
given if they are indoors, protected and not externally
exposed to rainfall etc., for example as with car park
decks. For larger areas and thicker concrete floor
slabs, such as the 150 to >200 mm thick concrete
slabs used for most medium to heavy duty service
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requirements, the concrete can actually take much is NOT the percentage of Relative Humidity in the
longer to dry out; for example, a new 200 mm thick concrete and should not be used as such.
ground-floor concrete slab laid over a DPM without
any additional heating or ventilation may take up to a
full year to dry out to a moisture content of 4% by
volume, which is the maximum recommended for
application of any vapour-tight resin floor.

Alternatively resin or wax based curing agents can be


sprayed on the freshly finished floor surface to act as
a barrier and reduce the rate of evaporation. However,
as previously mentioned, this method is totally
inappropriate when a subsequent floor paint or resin
floor is to be applied.

New concrete should normally remain covered for 2 to


3 weeks, followed by a further period of at least 2
weeks uncovered, but protected from the weather and
with good ventilation. This results in the minimum 28
day ‘rule of thumb’ period of curing prior to any resin
flooring works being carried out.

However, as this is obviously a very generalised rule,


given all the possible variables, it is recommended
that the actual moisture content of a floor is tested in
several representative areas, to confirm compliance
with the requirements of the resin flooring system
selected. This is exactly the same requirement on
both new and existing concrete and on cement
screed floors.

Testing the content humidity of the substrate can be


done in various ways and with various tools or
devices:

- Plastic Sheet Test Method: This test method is


qualitative and only provides static results at the
moment that the test is completed. This test method - Carbide Moisture Method (CM) is the most efficient
will not provide quantitative moisture level results and and recommended method to determine the residual
is strictly used to determine if moisture is present. moisture content in concrete and screeds. This
This is generally considered an out-dated method to procedure is described in the annex of RILI SIB and
measure moisture transmission. ZTV ING.
- Relative Humidity Testing: Typically, relative When calcium carbide is in contact with water,
humidity testing (also referred to as in situ testing) acetylene gas is released. The method requires a
involves drilling a hole into the concrete and inserting sample to be taken from the material of interest – the
a plastic sleeve. The sleeve is sealed and pressure is concrete substrate. The sample is weighed and then
allowed to equalize for a prescribed length of time. A placed in a gas pressure vessel with a calcium carbide
hygrometer probe is inserted into the sleeve and the ampoule and some steel balls. When the vessel is
reading is taken. Some relative humidity testers do not shaken, the steel balls break the ampoule. As a
require drilling a hole. Testing equipment methodology consequence, the calcium carbide reacts with the
and procedures may vary by manufacturer. water in the sample.
- Pin Moisture Meter Test: When testing concrete A precise device at the top of the vessel can be used
using pin type moisture meters, it is essential to to measure the resulting gas pressure. The quantity of
determine exactly what the information provided by the generated gas is directly proportional to the
the meter is showing. For instance, many meters moisture content of the sample. Below is a
provide a value showing the Moisture Content of the description of the measuring equipment:
surface being tested. However, the moisture content

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concrete floor surfaces. These include our range of
water-based epoxy resin flooring systems. They are
also water vapour permeable, meaning vapour
diffusible, or ‘breathable’ as they are sometimes
described. Therefore, by gradual water vapour
diffusion through the system, these resin flooring
systems will continue to allow the concrete below to
continue to dry out under the freshly applied and fully
bonded resin flooring system.

4.4.2 Tensile Strength Testing

The DYNA pull-off tester is a mobile and versatile


device with the following areas of application:
- Measuring the adhesive strength of applied
coatings: This includes, for example, plastic coatings,
concrete coatings, mortars and plasters, bituminous
coatings as well as paint finishes and coatings of
metals.
- Determining the surface strength of concrete and
other materials:
The surface strength is tested directly on the
component. Any measuring point can be used and
there is no need to embed the sample in the concrete
first. The legs can be moved and/or extended on all
models and the measuring procedure can be perfectly
adapted to the test situation. All measurements can
be carried out using test discs with different
diameters. The standard diameter of a test disc is Ø
50 mm.

Testing is carried out directly on the structure and


may be measured on any point of the structure. For
the determination of tensile strength, it is not
necessary to install test devices prior to the casting of
the concrete. It is ideal for evaluating strength in
concrete renovation, does not require power and may
be used in any location.

As an alternative for substrates with more than 4%


humidity content, we have resin flooring systems
available which are designed to be suitable for earlier
application, or even application onto continually damp

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4.4.3 Compressive Strength Testing
The quality of concrete slabs are mainly judged by
their compressive strength directly affecting the load-
bearing capacity and durability of concrete structures.
The hammer test is used for analysing the
compressive strength properties of concrete.
A Schmidt hammer will hit the concrete at a defined
energy, whereas its rebound is dependent on the
hardness of the concrete and is measured by the
instrument. Schmidt hammers are available in models
with different impact energies, with each test hammer
designed for a specific test application in order to
meet the needs of the customers to investigate a wide
range of material types and sizes, such as bridge
decks, thin walls or cast stone components.

Specifications:

The Digi-Schmidt Concrete Test Hammer H-2976


couples the original Schmidt Hammer with rebound
measuring sensors and microprocessor technology to
provide an instrument designed applications requiring
numerous measurements. The method is rapid,
reproducible, and has resolution previously
unattainable by manual models. The hammer is
connected to a control and display unit by means of a
connecting cable. Strength values are shown digitally
as they are taken and also displayed as groups of
bars on the 128 x 128 pixel graphic LCD. Mean value
and standard deviation for a preset number of
measurements are computed and displayed. Via a
menu display, the user can select hammer impact
direction (up, down, horizontal, etc.) and desired
engineering units (psi, MPa, kg/cm2, or N/mm2) and
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indicates the specimen size and type (cylinders,
cubes, etc.) for which strength data are to be
predicted. Instrument measuring range is 1,450 to
10,150 psi (10-70 N/mm2) using 2.207 Nm impact
energy.

Accuracy is ±0.2R with 0.5R reproducibility. Rebound


vs. strength correlation curves for 7 and 28 day
strengths are installed in memory, or the users own
data may be installed via keyboard entry. The Internal
memory holds 5000 measurements, each with date
and time. Data can be transferred via the RS-232C
interface to a PC in Microsoft Excel using the included
cable and software. Direct printing is possible. The
Digi-Schmidt consists of the test hammer, control and
display unit, connecting cable, PC cable, carrying
strap, rubbing stone, instruction manual and a plastic
carrying case.

4.4.4 Environmental condition measurements

Optimal environmental conditions are essential for


surface preparation, application, and curing of
coatings and flooring systems to maximize successful
performance. Here are five environmental conditions
that should be observed and measured and the effect
each condition has on a successful job:

- Air temperature
- Surface temperature
- Relative humidity (RH)
- Dew point temperature
- The difference between the surface and dew
point temperatures
It is commonly known that most flooring systems will
not dry properly at low temperatures and high RH. %RH - Relative humidity
Less understood is the impact of surface moisture on Ta - Air temperature
the life and performance of materials. Moisture forms Ts - Surface temperature
on a surface when warmer, moist air comes into Td - Dew point temperature
contact with it, resulting in a process called ∆ - Delta between the surface
condensation. Trapped between a coating and a and dew-point temperatures
substrate, moisture is likely to cause the applied
system to fail prematurely. Please refer to Annex 1 – Dew point Table.

Light condensation on blasted surfaces can be 4.4.5 Surface regularity


difficult to observe. Rather than detect this moisture,
instruments are used to help avoiding the risk of The class or category of surface regularity required for
moisture forming in the first place. Tests should be a floor surface will depend upon the use of the floor.
performed to calculate the dew-point temperature Insistence on a higher tolerance than needed for the
before, during and after the coating process. Dew- operating conditions will result in unnecessary
point temperature should be compared to the surface increased costs, and this should be borne in mind
temperature to ensure the two are far enough apart when selecting a surface regularity standard.
that moisture formation is unlikely.
With a Dew Point Meter you can measure and record The 3 metre straightedge method given in BS 8204-1
climatic parameters including relative humidity, air is generally satisfactory for the majority of floor uses
temperature, surface temperature, dew point and, where appropriate, the designer should specify
temperature and the difference between surface and one of the classes of surface regularity given in Table
dew point temperatures. 1. Alternatively the method of DIN 18 202 may be
used.

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On the jobsite (before application):
Table 1: • Plan the application procedure (areas, time).
Classification of surface regularity for wearing Inform owner, contractor etc. of this plan
surfaces of normal and high standard flooring (preferably in writing).
• Check the products (right ones and enough)?
Class Maximum permissible Application
departure from a
• Logistics on the jobsite. Store the products
3 m straightedge in directly at the jobsite.
contact with the floor • Before application have a clear plan of what
SR1 3 mm High standard: special and when.
floors
SR2 5 mm Normal standard:
normal use in Substrate preparation and checking of the substrate:
commercial and • Carry out according to specification, in the
industrial buildings
SR3 10 mm Utility standard: other
right way with the right equipment
floors where surface • Treat corners, cracks and joints.
regularity is less • Measure and check moisture content of the
critical substrate (CM or surface measurement)
• Check the air temperature and humidity
• Check the strength of the substrate (pull-off
Where the floor will be subject to wet service test).
conditions, a high class of Surface Regularity may be • Be sure that the substrate is clean and fulfils
necessary to minimise ponding. Where the
requirements.
straightedge method of specification is used it will be
necessary for the various interested parties in a
Application:
contract to agree the sampling rate for testing the
floor to check conformity, before the floor is • Check the temperature of the products, air
constructed. and substrate.
The simple straightedge method of specifying floor • Check that the conditions for work are ok (see
surface regularity is only suitable for floors finished by TDS).
conventional finishing techniques that will produce a • Check that all the tools and equipment are ok.
smoothly undulating surface rather than an irregular • Check that no-one can bring dirt or moisture
'washboard' finish. onto the working area. The area must be
protected from other construction operations.
Where a very high degree of accuracy is required, e.g. • Organise the mixing place properly (products,
for high level racking or television studios, specialist waste, workstation). Check that you have the
test equipment should be used to govern the level of right components before mixing them.
the floor as it is laid and to check its conformity. • Mix and apply materials according to
instructions (mixing/application)
The difference in height across any joints in the • Clean tools between and after application.
flooring should be less than 1 mm with no abrupt
changes in level. Because of the relatively low Time of Air humidity Air temperature
thicknesses of some classes of synthetic resin application
flooring, it is essential that any significant differences
in height across the joints in the concrete base or 8.40 70 % + 15 °C
screed are ground flat before the flooring is applied. 12.00 65 % + 19 °C
18.00 63 % + 18 °C
4.5 Checklist prior to application
After application:
Before jobsite:
• Protect the area with clean fabric or plastic
• What system? What products are to be used?
sheet, so that no-one can walk or bring dirt
• Study the products Training needed?
onto it.
• Logistics of the products (quantity,
• Inform the person in charge (owner,
consumptions, order, transport…) to jobsite.
contractor), how long the material applied
• What labour is needed? (3, 5 men or more?)
must be left without loading.
• What equipment and tools are needed?
• Make a record document (protocol) of the
Ensure spares. (do not forget personal
application procedure (conditions, what was
protection equipment)
done, which products and batch numbers,
• Ensure you have Technical Data Sheets (TDS), quantity used, area done, time for application
MSDSs and the specification on the jobsite. etc.).

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4.6 Application protocol – Example. 5. Materials – Products and Systems: General.

Project: ABC factory outlet. Bahnhofstrasse 1.


6443. Stuttgart. Germany.
Owner: ABC GmbH

Product(s):

Name Charge Quantity Area


used (m2)
MASTERTOP Comp A: 300 kg 600
P617 12345678 m2
Rooms 1A and 2 Comp B:
A 15555222

MASTERTOP BC Comp A: 2000 kg 870


375 12345678 m2
Room 3 B Comp B:
15555222
As parts of the final flooring system, our products are
MASTERTOP TC Comp A: 120 kg 870 defined by various names and functions:
441 P 12345678 m2
Room 3 B Comp B: • Primers
15555222
• Scratch coats

Substrate and conditions: • Wear coats

Type of substrate: Concrete (new) • Pore sealers

Preparation Shot-blasting • Elastic layers


method:
• Rubber layers
Humidity: 3,5 % by weight
• Body coats
Temperature: +13 °C (at 08.40)
• Top coats
Pull-off strength: 2,3 N/mm2 (measured 20.7.11)

Dew point checked: +8 °C (at 08.40)

Other comments:

Due to unrelated power cut, the job had to be stopped


for 1 hour at 16.00 o` clock .
………………………………………………

All of them have different chemistries, functionalities,


Date: 23.7.11
scopes and their own characteristics for application.
Signature: ………………………
These products are updated and developed in order
to fulfil market requirements and to deliver fully
functional quality flooring systems.

The product groups and their characteristics are


shown below in overview:

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5.1 Primers

The word ‘primer’ means ‘first’ and in this case it is


the first layer to be applied to the substrate coated.
The primer is one of the most important layers of the
flooring system which the substrate receives. The final
flooring system is totally dependent on the primer
doing its job. The primer will only be able to perform
well if surface preparation has been done well.

Irrespective of whether the concrete surface to be


covered is indoors or outside, the final work will last
longer better with a primer underneath. Low-viscosity
and usually filler-free epoxy-based (sometimes also
polyurethane or silane resin-based) reaction resins are
used to produce an adhesive bond, for example If you would like to check the suitability and to use
between a concrete and a coating system. Primers different primers on different substrate types, please
are usually broadcast with silica sand. refer to the next Primer Matrix:
Function of priming:
• ensures adhesion between substrate and floor
finish under anticipated service conditions
• provide a defined surface for the following
floor system
• close the pores in the substrate, in order to:
- prevent air rising through the floor causing defects
in the surface
- prevent resin being drawn out of the floor topping,
reducing the workability and appearance of the
finished floor

For detailed information please refer to Annex 2.

As they are designed to ensure adhesion between


substrate and floor finish under anticipated service
conditions, we can use primers which will provide a
chemical bonding, e.g, Mastertop P615, or primers
where bonding will be increased if dry oven quartz
sand is broadcast over the freshly applied product, for
example Mastertop P617.

Usually the size of the quartz sand particles is 0.3 –


0.7 mm or 0.4 – 0.8 mm and the application may be
done manually or using quartz sand spray guns.

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Sometimes primers have quartz sand included from
the production phase, or it may be added directly on
the jobsite. Adding dry quartz sand in the mix will give
a scratch coat, as shown in all system build ups:

Broadcasting quartz sand on the primed surface may


have certain advantages, such as better adhesion of
the body coat, therefore a reduced risk of de-bonding
in high traffic areas, improved impact resistance
where high impacts are expected, etc., but, at the
same time it may can influence the final appearance of
the system, increase the consumption of body coat, The mix ratio between resin and sand may vary and
and increase the risk of having air bubbles in the body should fit with the final product requirements:
coat. strengthening and levelling the surface of substrate.
Usually the grade of quartz sand added in primer is
The quantity of the quartz sand spread per square 0.1 mm – 0.3 mm or even more fine as 0.1 mm (such
metre is also important, and directly related to the as silica flour types).
flooring system design, system build up, job site
conditions and the stresses on the final floor. It may Surface roughness is usually determined using the
be carried out as light sand broadcasting or fully “sand-surface-procedure” (from Kaufmann). Other
broadcast until rejection. In both cases the quartz methods are acceptable. The sand-surface-
sand should be broadcasted carefully and uniformly. procedure is used to determine the mean roughness
depth on a horizontal surface. The measurement is
In general, broadcasting primer is a matter of choice carried out after preparation of the surface. A defined
and it is only recommended after the considerations amount of sand (volume V) is circular distributed on
above have been carefully analysed. the surface to be tested, so that the holes are just
filled. The mean roughness (Rt) is defined as the level
The picture below shows the difference in the surface of the virtual cylinder of diameter d and volume V of
quality of a body coat applied both with and without the sand required.
quartz sand underneath, and at the same Equipment and tools for measuring:
consumption per square metre:
- vessel with known volume V, between 25 cm³ and
50 cm³ (laboratory measuring cup)
- dried silica sand, size Ø 0.1 to 0.3 mm
- round hardwood disc with a handle (Ø 50 mm,
thickness 10 mm)
- folding rule / yardstick

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The position of the measuring points must be chosen Depending on the results you may determine the mix
such that the test results are representative for the ratio of resin to quartz sand. Usually the mix ratio
test area (construction part). Each test area is used is around 1:0.5 – 2.0, but this should not be used
provided with at least three measuring points. as a general rule and should be directly related to the
substrate roughness.
The tests are carried out and evaluated as follows:
For special situations, here follows information for
- pour the silica sand from the filled vessel onto the oil contaminated concrete substrates to which a
clean and dry surface floor coating system is to be applied:
- rub the sand into the surface using the wood disc
with spiral movements and without pressure to forma The target of substrate preparation is to get a good
circle, until the surface is evenly covered bonding of primer on the surface, with an average
- measure the diameter of the circle 2
value around a minimum 1,5 N/mm . Oil contaminated
- determine surface roughness with the following substrates are special cases where normal
formula or existing tables: preparation by grinding or short blasting is not
enough. Such areas require a combination of
The mean roughness Rt (mm) can be calculated by chemical and mechanical cleaning.
the sand volume V (cm³) and the diameter d (cm) with The first step is to clean off the main oil contamination
the approximately circular distributed sand on the concrete, followed by shot blasting and/or
Rt = 40 * V / π * d² mm grinding. Experience shows that oil rises to the
The determined roughness is specified in mm in the surface because of capillary effects. This is critical for
report. normal epoxy primers and for the MASTERTOP P615
primer.
Recommendation: for roughness >0.5 mm levelling of Before applying the primer, clean the mechanically
the substrate is always required! Otherwise increases prepared surface with a special surfactant cleaner
in film thickness (dz) from the current regulations must which is able to disperse the oil and also bond it.
be considered. (Extract from table of “sand-test- The following pictures and descriptions explain:
method by Kaufmann“)
Picture 1:
Oil contaminated area

Picture 2:
Oil contaminated area: close-up view

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Picture 3: Picture 6:
Normal concrete before and after shot blasting After shot blasting oil rises to the surface of the
substrate due to capillary action. The oil causes poor
bonding of the primer.

Picture 7:
Picture 4: By using a special surfactant cleaner and ultra-high
Shot blasting insufficient because the oil rises to the pressure washing, oil will disperses out of the
surface and affects adhesion capillary.

Pictures 8 and 9:
After the cleaning with the surfactant cleaner the
surface must be free of oil and water with a matt
Picture 5: appearance. The special primer MASTERTOP P 609
Basic cleaning: Removal of the oil and soiled crust. must be applied within a short time, brushed into the
Making an optically clean concrete with open pores. surface and broadcasted with kiln-dried silica sand
(0.6-1.2 mm grain size).

Cleaning of other oil-contaminated substrates

Generally all cement-based substrates such as


concrete and cement-based screeds may be cleaned
of oil contamination. However, magnesite and
anhydrite screeds are not suitable because they are
damaged by water.
Effectiveness of oil removal and cleaning of oil
contaminated substrates Mastic asphalt is unproblematic with water, but the
influence of oil and oil compounds causes a reduction

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in the resistance of the bitumen binder. In all cases it body coat should have the following qualities and
is essential to analyse the situation before a decision ensure they are present in the final flooring system:
is taken on the likely success of renovation.
 Mechanical strength (traffic load)
Picture 10:  Impact resistance
Cleaning in the depth of the building fabric. Oil will  Elasticity
rise to the surface if oil and capillaries are present.  Crack bridging
 Sound absorption

Step 1
Residual and subsoil moisture after pre-treatment

Before the primer can be applied it is important that


residual and subsoil moisture are sufficiently low. This
means that the capillaries are not filled with water
after chemical pre-treatment. After wet cleaning use of
an industrial wet vacuum cleaner is necessary.
Step 2
The following descriptions can help to analyse the
residual and subsoil moisture:
- “damp”: the surface has a matt damp appearance
without glossy water film. A water droplet is absorbed
by the surface and after a short time the surface again
appears matt.
- “wet“: the pore structure is filled with water and the
concrete surface appears completely glossy. The Step 3
primer must be applied on a “damp” surface. The
pores in the structure ensure penetration into the
substrate and provide a good bond. Apply with a
rubber squeegee and subsequently brush carefully
into the surface to improve wetting.

5.2 Body coats


Step4
What is meant with “body coat”?
Usually the body coat or basecoat is a bi-component 5.3 Top coat
polyurethane or epoxy product applied as a self-
levelling layer. What do we mean by “top coat”?
As a basecoat the product will be applied thick – 2.0-
3.0 mm, and normally it is solvent free. In general, the Usually the top coat is a single or bi-component
polyurethane or epoxy product applied as a thin layer
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which contributes a high added value to the final
flooring or wall system.

Top coating is a very important step and the


will have the following functions for the final flooring
system:

 Protection against yellowing


 Prevent dirt pick up and soiling
 Improve the scratch resistance
 Improve the life cycle of the system
 Reduce maintenance costs
 Allow renewal of the system by re-topping

To check suitability and to select top coats for use on


various body coats types, please refer to the following
top coats matrix and please refer to Annex 3:

5.4 Auxiliary materials

5.4.1 Aggregates

A wide variety of natural aggregate types are used to


provide various properties in the finished floor. Most
widely used are quartz, flints, granites, basalt, marble,
2
aluminium oxides, silicon carbide (carborundum), as
Top coat products are applied thin – 100-200 g/m - well as glass, rubber and plastics. They impart
and are normally solvent-free. In general, top coats strength and abrasion resistance, improve the
may have all or some of the following qualities and aesthetic qualities and may provide a slip-resistant
ensure they are present in the final flooring system: and safe surface texture.

 Final design and aesthetic properties Quartz sand aggregates are widely used as scatters to
 Slip resistance produce light slip resistant floors suitable for foot and
 ESD or antibacterial properties rubber wheeled traffic. The crushing strength is quite
 Light, UV and colour stability low and should not be used where steel or hard
 Gloss level plastic wheeled traffic is to be encountered, as the

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aggregate will be broken down and the slip resistance often mixed together with white calcined flints to
lost. The sizes often found in the market are: 0.1 – 0.3 produce attractive resin terrazzo floors.
mm, 0.2 – 0.4 mm, 0.4 – 0.8 mm, 0.7 – 1.2 mm, 1.0 –
2.0 mm, 2.0 – 3.0 mm and the content of Silicon
dioxide (SiO2) is approx. 97 %.

Quartz sand aggregates are often coated to produce a


wide variety of colours that can be mixed to produce
very attractive floors when encapsulated in clear
resins or top coats.

Marble tends only to be used in terrazzo floors for


commercial use as it is found to be too weak and
have poor chemical resistance making it unsuitable for
industrial applications.

Aluminium oxide is frequently used as a scatter on the


surface of resin floors to produce a slip resistant
Flints are used where better abrasion resistance is profile. It will be plucked out by small hard wheeled
required than can be achieved with quartz. traffic if not encapsulated and this can lead to the
Natural flints and colour calcined flints are widely used stripping off of the profile.
and produce durable slip resistant floors or carpet
stone flooring systems. Normally they are used in
combination with a suitable EP or PU binder for inside
or outside areas.

Granites and basalt are used to produce tough


finishes. Granites of various colours are

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Glass beads – when combined with the resin, the
floor's chemical resistance is improved due to the
glass beads' inert nature. The physical characteristics
of glass microspheres also provide a type of anti-skid
medium within the floor. As glass is much harder than
resin, the hardness of the flooring is increased thus
improving the wear resistance of the floor.

Silicon carbide is another very tough aggregate, as a


light scatter of fine particles it is used to add an
attractive lustre and some slip resistance to smooth
resin floors. Silicon carbide will conduct electricity and
can be used in the production of antistatic flooring
systems.

While under agitation, slowly add the glass beads,


size Ø 53 – 106 μm, using between 3–5% by volume
per mixed unit of top coat. A measuring cup should be
used for this purpose to ensure proper distribution of
the glass beads and create a uniform appearance.
The material should be periodically agitated to ensure
the beads continue to stay in suspension.

Recycled materials are now being incorporated into


resin floors, thus helping to reduce the amount of
materials that have to be buried in landfill sites. Glass
of various colours is used to produce very attractive
light duty terrazzo floors for commercial applications,
and rubber is used with polyurethane binders to make
sports hall and safety floors – Mastertop DCT.

5.4.2 Rubber rolls - MAT

MAT is prefabricated elastic rubber granulate matting


consisting of rubber granulate bound with a
polyurethane binder. It is used an intermediate layer to
provide sound-deadening properties in MASTERTOP
1325 REG and MASTERTOP 1326 REG systems.

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
In general, the mesh has the following functionality in
the final system:

 Reliable protection against cracks in walls and


ceilings
 Optimal fitting into any plastering system to create
top quality, durable walls and ceilings
 Indoor and outdoor applications
 Particularly essential where extreme temperature
fluctuations are expected
 Impact resistance

MASTERTOP GF Mesh is installed directly onto the


prepared, primed and freshly pore-sealed substrate.
Press the fibreglass mesh directly into the fresh two-
component polyurethane pore sealer MASTERTOP PS
231 FL. Press the mesh into the sealer from top to
bottom, with a metallic or hard plastic smooth trowel.
MASTERTOP MAT is available in rolls with a mat Ensure that the resin comes evenly through the pores
thickness of 4 mm or 6 mm and can be supplied in of the mesh.
rolls with a width of 1.50 m and a length of 10 m (15
m²). Consult the system data sheet for detailed application
steps. It is recommended that the mesh is unrolled
5.4.3 Decorative chips approximately 6 hours before fixing and sticking, and
that it is cut to size in advance.
Colour flakes are through-pigmented particles based
on polyvinyl-acetate (PVA) or acrylic (AC). Colour 5.4.5 Copper tape
flakes can be mixed together in order to create
decorative multicolour finishes for walls, floors and Self-adhesive copper tape for discharging electrical
ceilings amongst other applications. They can be charges in conductive flooring systems.
applied manually or using different blow guns. Tape is typically used for applications requiring
excellent electrical conductivity from the application
substrate through the adhesive to the foil backing.

5.4.4 Fiberglass mesh

A high tensile strength fiberglass mesh is used to Tape is typically used to bond two surfaces together,
prevent cracks and increase the impact resistance of both electrically and physically. Since double-sided
MASTERTOP WS 300 PU polyurethane wall systems. copper tape would typically be used as an electrical
MASTERTOP GF MESH is a prefabricated white path between two surfaces, its most important feature
fiberglass mesh, made of glass which is inorganic and is its conductivity. Highly conductive particles in the
therefore non-flammable. acrylic adhesive provide a multitude of electrical paths

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
between the application substrate and the surface of bubbles with a spiked roller 5 – 10 minutes after
the copper foil on each side. application.

When installing the copper tape, the primer should be


Mortar systems will be applied with installation tools
clean, dry and free from substances with a insulating
effect. The copper tape is glued in place and (squeegee, levelling tracks, draw box etc.) and
connected to the equipotential bonding conductor. smoothed by hand or by a plate smoother
(“helicopter”).
If the primer has been sanded, abrade to produce a
smooth substrate where copper tape is to be 6.1.2 Method statements.
installed. Spread out the fibres of the earthing cables
and fix to the substrate with copper tape. Apply Example:
copper tape at maximum 10 meter centres to ensure
that no part of the floor is more than 5 m from a AICI SP
copper tape. Ensure that every section of floor is Frankfurt, Germany
connected to an earth linkage. All copper tapes Mr. ……………….
should be connected to earth at both ends. Tel: …………………….
Email: aici@aici-sp.com
6. Application, tools and method statements.
Mastertop 1324 and Mastertop 1324 R – Method
6.1 Application Statement

6.1.1 Application method - General. 1. Substrate preparation.

All substrates (new and old) must be structurally


MASTERTOP materials are applied in accordance
sound, dry and free of laitance and loose particles.
with technical data sheets by roller, squeegee, Clean floors of oil, grease, rubber skid marks, paint
notched trowel or a scraper. Generally, we stains and other adhesion impairing contaminants.
recommend that most primers, sealers and Mechanical surface profiling by grit or shot blasting,
impregnations are applied with a flood slide high-pressure water jetting, grinding or scabbling
technique, using a squeegee and finishing with a (including the necessary post-treatment) are the
roller. Primers should also be broadcast with oven- preferred floor preparation methods.
dried silica sand to obtain a better adhesion to After surface preparation the tensile strength of the
substrate should exceed 1.5 N/mm2 (check with an
subsequent coatings. There are also special primers
approved pull-off tester at a load rate of 100 N/s).The
available where a broadcast with silica sand is not residual moisture content of the substrate must not
necessary. exceed 4 % (check with a CM device or similar). A
damp proof course must have been properly installed
If epoxy primers are re-coated with epoxy resins, a and be intact. After the shot blasting process, any
sand broadcast is not necessary. When doing this, it open cracks must be filled with an epoxy and silica
is essential that the specified re-coating intervals of quartz sand mix with a mix ratio 1:6…10.
epoxy primers shown in the relevant technical data
sheet are observed. 2. Application method

MASTERTOP 1324 R – Industrial PU flooring system.


In conductive systems a broadcast with silica sand is
not required. For this purpose it is essential to observe 2.1 Application of Primer Mastertop P 617 – day 1.
the re-coating intervals of epoxy primers and Mastertop P 617 is supplied in 25 kg working packs
conductive primers. For high mechanical loads or which are pre-packaged in the exact ratio. Before
special system applications (e.g. MASTERTOP 1278 mixing, precondition both A and B components to a
AS) a sand broadcast is necessary. temperature of approximately 15 to 25 °C. Pour the
entire contents of Part B into the container of Part A.
Body coats and self-levelling mortars are applied with DO NOT MIX BY HAND. Mix with a mechanical drill
and paddle at a very low speed (ca. 300 rpm) for at
notched trowels or with pin rakes. The tooth size or
least 3 minutes. Scrape the sides and the bottom of
the pins should be selected according to the required the container several times to ensure complete
layer thickness (take care not to go below minimum mixing. Keep the mixer blades submerged in the
recommended coverage rates or to exceed the coating to avoid introducing air bubbles. DO NOT
maximum recommended coverage rate). Remove air WORK OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PAIL. After proper

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
mixing to a homogeneous consistency pour the mixed temperatures the chemical reactions are slowed
Parts A and B into a fresh container and mix for down; this lengthens the pot life, open time and curing
another minute. MASTERTOP P 617 should be times. High temperatures speed up the chemical
applied when the ambient temperature is constant or reactions, thus the time frames mentioned above are
falling as this will decrease the risk of bubble shortened accordingly.
formation due to expansion of air that is enclosed in To fully cure, the material, substrate and application
the concrete. After mixing, MASTERTOP P 617 is temperature should not fall below the minimum. After
applied to the prepared substrate by spreading with a application, the material should be protected from
squeegee and finishing with a roller. Oven dried sand direct contact with water for approx. 24 h (at 20°C).
is broadcast into the still wet primer in order to Within this period, contact with water can cause a
improve adhesion of the following coat. The curing surface bloom and/or surface tackiness, both of which
time of the material is influenced by the ambient, must be removed. Carbamate has a marked effect of
material and substrate temperatures. At low the coating and has to be removed. Mastertop BC
temperatures, the chemical reactions are slowed 375 N is a polyurethane product with 10 %
down; this lengthens the pot life, open time and curing elongation.
times. High temperatures speed up the chemical
reactions thus the time frames mentioned above are 2.3 Application of top coat Mastertop TC 473 – day 3.
shortened accordingly. To fully cure, the material, MASTERTOP TC 473 is supplied in working packs
substrate and application temperature should not fall which are pre-packaged in the exact ratio. Before
below the minimum. After application, the material mixing, precondition both A and B components to a
should be protected from direct contact with water for temperature of approximately 15 to 25 °C. Pour the
approx. 24 h (at 20° C). Within this period, contact entire contents of part B into the container of part A.
with water can cause a surface bloom and/or surface DO NOT MIX BY HAND.
tackiness, both of which must be removed. The Mix with a mechanical drill and paddle at a very low
temperature of the substrate must be at least 3 K speed (ca. 300 rpm) for at least 3 minutes. Scrape the
above the dew point both during the application and sides and the bottom of the container several times to
for at least 24 hours after the application (at 15 °C). ensure complete mixing. Keep the mixer blades
submerged in the coating to avoid introducing air
2.2 Application of Body Coat Mastertop BC 375 N – bubbles. DO NOT WORK OUT OF THE ORIGINAL
day 2. PAIL. After proper mixing to a homogeneous
MASTERTOP BC 375 N is supplied in working packs consistency pour the mixed parts A and B into a fresh
which are pre-packaged in the exact ratio. container and mix for another minute. MASTERTOP
Before mixing, precondition both A and B TC 473 should be spread evenly with a squeegee
components to a temperature of approximately 15 to followed by back rolling The curing time of the
25 °C. Pour the entire contents of part B into the material is influenced by the ambient, material and
container of part A. DO NOT MIX BY HAND. Mix with substrate temperatures. At low temperatures, the
a mechanical drill and paddle at a very low speed (ca. chemical reactions are slowed down; this lengthens
300 rpm) for at least 3 minutes. Scrape the sides and the pot life, open time and curing times. High
the bottom of the container several times to ensure temperatures speed up the chemical reactions thus
complete mixing. Keep the mixer blades submerged the time frames mentioned above are shortened
in the coating to avoid introducing air bubbles. DO accordingly. To fully cure, the material, substrate and
NOT WORK OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PAIL. application temperature should not fall below the
After proper mixing to a homogeneous consistency minimum. Following application the material should be
pour the mixed parts A and B into a fresh container protected from direct contact with water for approx.
and mix for another minute. After mixing, 16 hours. The temperature of the substrate must be at
MASTERTOP BC 375 N is applied to the prepared least 3 K above the dew point both during the
substrate, using a notched trowel or scraper. The application and for at least 16 hours after application
tooth size should be selected according to the (at 15 °C).
thickness of layer required (take care not to exceed
the maximum recommended coverage rate). To MASTERTOP 1324 – Industrial PU flooring system,
remove air bubbles, spike roll 5-10 minutes after self levelling, matt finish
application. Oven dry silica dry sand is broadcasted
uniformly to rejection in to the wet base coat. After 2.1 Application of Primer Mastertop P 617 – day 1.
overnight curing, remove excess aggregate with an Mastertop P 617 is supplied in 25 kg working packs
industrial vacuum cleaner. Give the floor a light which are pre-packaged in the exact ratio. Before
scraping with the edge of the trowel or a light sanding mixing, precondition both A and B components to a
to remove rough spots and loosely bonded aggregate. temperature of approximately 15 to 25 °C. Pour the
entire contents of Part B into the container of Part A.
The curing time of the material is influenced by the DO NOT MIX BY HAND. Mix with a mechanical drill
ambient, material and substrate temperatures. At low and paddle at a very low speed (ca. 300 rpm) for at
BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
least 3 minutes. Scrape the sides and the bottom of open time and curing times. High temperatures speed
the container several times to ensure complete up the chemical reactions thus the time frames
mixing. Keep the mixer blades submerged in the mentioned above are shortened accordingly. To fully
coating to avoid introducing air bubbles. DO NOT cure, the material, substrate and application
WORK OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PAIL. After proper temperature should not fall below the minimum. After
mixing to a homogeneous consistency pour the mixed application, the material should be protected from
Parts A and B into a fresh container and mix for direct contact with water for approx. 24 h (at 20°C).
another minute. MASTERTOP P 617 should be Within this period, contact with water can cause a
applied when the ambient temperature is constant or surface bloom and/or surface tackiness, both of which
falling as this will decrease the risk of bubble must be removed. Carbamate has a marked effect of
formation due to expansion of air that is enclosed in the coating and has to be removed. Mastertop BC
the concrete. After mixing, MASTERTOP P 617 is 375 N it is a polyurethane product with 10 %
applied to the prepared substrate by spreading with a elongation.
squeegee and finishing with a roller. Oven dried sand
is broadcast into the still wet primer in order to 2.3 Application of Top Coat Mastertop TC 441 – day
improve adhesion of the following coat. The curing 3.
time of the material is influenced by the ambient, MASTERTOP TC 441 C/P is supplied in the correct
material and substrate temperatures. At low proportions of component A (resin) and
temperatures, the chemical reactions are slowed component B (hardener). Prior to mixing the
down; this lengthens the pot life, open time and curing temperature of the material must be between 15-25
times. High temperatures speed up the chemical °C. Pour component B into the container of
reactions thus the time frames mentioned above are component A and ensure that container B is emptied
shortened accordingly. completely. To achieve a homogeneous mix, both
To fully cure, the material, substrate and application components must be thoroughly mixed with a mixing
temperature should not fall below the minimum. After device at about 300 rev/min. Ensure that the mixing
application, the material should be protected from device reaches side and bottom areas of the mixing
direct contact with water for approx. 24 h (at 20° C). vessel. Stir for at least 3 minutes or until the blend is
Within this period, contact with water can cause a homogeneous and streak free. Do not use the material
surface bloom and/or surface tackiness, both of which out of container supplied, but pour the mix into
must be removed. The temperature of the substrate another container and remix for 1 minute.
must be at least 3 K above the dew point both during MASTERTOP TC 441 C/P is applied by spreading with
the application and for at least 24 hours after the a squeegee. Finish by back rolling. Do not exceed
application (at 15 °C). maximum consumption figure. Avoid puddles. The
workability of reactive resins is influenced by the
2.2 Application of Body Coat Mastertop BC 375 N – ambient and substrate temperature. At low
day 2. temperatures the chemical reactions are slowed
MASTERTOP BC 375 N is supplied in working packs down; this lengthens the pot life, recoating interval
which are pre-packaged in the exact ratio. Before and open time. At the same time the viscosity
mixing, precondition both A and B components to a increases which leads to a higher consumption. High
temperature of approximately 15 to 25 °C. Pour the temperature accelerates chemical reactions so that
entire contents of part B into the container of part A. the time frames mentioned above are shortened
DO NOT MIX BY HAND. Mix with a mechanical drill accordingly. To fully cure the material the substrate
and paddle at a very low speed (ca. 300 rpm) for at and working temperature must not fall below the
least 3 minutes. Scrape the sides and the bottom of minimum. The relative humidity limitations (minimum,
the container several times to ensure complete maximum) must be observed. Following application
mixing. Keep the mixer blades submerged in the the material should be protected from direct contact
coating to avoid introducing air bubbles. DO NOT with water for approx. 24 hours (at 23 °C/50% rel.
WORK OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PAIL. After proper hum.). Within this period, contact with water causes
mixing to a homogeneous consistency, pour the foaming of the sealer.
mixed parts A and B into a fresh container and mix for Apart from these limitations, the respective guidelines
another minute. After mixing, MASTERTOP BC 375 N for the use of reactive resins apply.
is applied to the prepared substrate, using a notched
trowel or scraper. The tooth size should be selected In Frankfurt
according to the thickness of layer required (take care 10.01.2012
not to exceed the maximum. recommended coverage Name:……………………..
rate). To remove air bubbles, spike roll 5-10 minutes Title:……………………….
after application. The curing time of the material is Company:…………………
influenced by the ambient, material and substrate
temperatures. At low temperatures, the chemical
reactions are slowed down; this lengthens the pot life,
BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Special decorative flooring systems such as Pore filler: After intermediate grinding, the surface
MASTERTOP DCT will be described separately as must be cleaned thoroughly with an industrial vacuum
the application technology is slightly different: cleaner and MASTERTOP BC 306 pore filler,
subsequently applied with a rubber or metal trowel in
two stages. Consumption: 2.0 – 2.5 kg/m2 in total.
Substrate preparation and priming: as mentioned
above Grinding the filled surface: After the MASTERTOP
BC 306 pore filler layer has cured sufficiently (about 4
Rubber granulate layer: For application of the hours at 20°C), grinding must take place crosswise
granulate top coat, 6 parts by weight of MASTERTOP with a heavy-duty floor grinder, starting with 80 and
DCT Rubber must be mixed thoroughly with about 1 then 120 grit. This is followed by a second filling stage
part by weight of MASTERTOP BC 305 in a suitable and further grinding. Use a Hummel or similar type of
continuous or discontinuous compulsory mixer for floor grinder.
about 3 to 5 minutes. A uniform layer thickness of the An edge grinder with an 80 and 100 grit grinding disc
homogeneous mixture must subsequently be applied may be used for grinding along rising structures such
to the substrate with a draw box or manually, using as walls. Use an ELAN or similar type of edge grinder.
gauges.
To avoid visible seams in the top coat, the joints Application of the scratch coat: After final grinding,
between strips must be filled using a smoothing the dust must be removed with an industrial vacuum
trowel. The recommended mix ratio of granulate to cleaner and the surface cleaned with a damp floor
binder should be observed. Using less than the cloth. After drying, the scratch coat may be applied
recommended amount of binder will significantly with a metal trowel in order to seal any small pores
degrade the mechanical properties of the cured that might be present. The material must be prepared
granulate coating and is therefore not advisable. Do for application using a spatula with a thixotropic agent
not use moist rubber granulate, as any moisture in the (epoxy/polyurethane).
granulate will significantly accelerate the curing of the Product: MASTERTOP TC 407 W
binder and prevent the application of a uniform top Consumption: About 0.05 kg/m2
coat. Temperature and relative humidity are critical for
curing MASTERTOP BC 305. Transparent top coat: MASTERTOP TC 407 W
The curing rate decreases at low temperatures and transparent top coat can be applied with a short pile
low humidity, with a corresponding increase in curing roller as a finish.
and working times. High temperatures and high Consumption: About 110 – 130 g/m2
humidity accelerate curing, with a corresponding
reduction in working and curing times.
For application of the granulate top coat, use only the
recommended rubber granulate MASTERTOP DCT
Rubber to ensure that the technical values specified in
the test reports are achieved. For full curing of
MASTERTOP BC 305, the average temperature of the
substrate must remain above the specified minimum
application or processing temperature. Full material
properties are achieved after approximately 7 days.
A draw box can be used to apply a uniform coating of
the homogeneous mixture to the pre-primed substrate Step 1
in strips. The joints between the strips must be filled
manually and pre-levelled. The surface can
subsequently be compacted using a special steel
roller. The granule coating layer must be ground after
it has cured sufficiently to support foot traffic. Curing
is affected by the prevailing ambient temperature and
relative humidity. The surface must be ground
crosswise in several stages using a belt grinder before
and after pore filling with MASTERTOP BC 306.
Several grades of abrasives are used in this process, Step 2
starting with 40 grit and finishing with 80.
Consumption: About 9 – 10 kg/sqm mixed materials
(MASTERTOP BC 305 about 1.3 – 1.5 kg/sqm,
MASTERTOP DCT Rubber about 8 kg/sqm)

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Step 3 Step8

Technical instructions MASTERTOP 1300 REG -


systems

1. Substrate pre-treatment
All substrates (new and old) must be structurally
sound, dry and free of laitance and loose particles.
Cleaning floors of oil, grease, rubber skid marks, paint
Step 4 stains and other adhesion impairing contaminants.
Mechanical surface profiling by grit or shot blasting,
grinding or scabbling (including necessary post-
treatment)

Step 5

2. Fine cleaning
Sweeping, vacuum cleaning etc.
Step 6

Step 7

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
3. Primer
The primer is depending on substrate, but not
required on all substrates.
Primer with MASTERTOP P 660, P 615, P 617 or P
686 W
2
Consumption: ca. 0.3 – 0.5 kg/m

4. Scratch primer
Scratch primer with MASTERTOP P 660, P 615, P 617
or P 686 W filled with oven dried silica sand size 0.1 –
0.3 mm mixing ratio 1 : 0.5.
2
Consumption filled: ca. 0.6 – 0.8 kg/m

6. Bonding of the elastic layer


The fitted elastic layer will be unilaterally opened, then
the polyurethane adhesive MASTERTOP AD 170 is
applied with a notched trowel.
Consumption: ca. 0.8 – 1.0 kg/m².

5. Cut to size and lay elastic layer on substrate


It is recommended to unroll the elastic layer and cut to
size before the application. For the first path, it is
important to align them closely and right-angled. An
angular measure and a chalk line are helpful. Before
application rests of fine-particle granulate from cutting
are cleaned with vacuum cleaner from butting edges.
It is recommended to stay on the elastic layer during
closing the elastic layer, in order to avoid slipping of
the elastic layer. On the fresh adhesive of the elastic
layer can be corrected a little bit. Adhesive between
the butting edges must be avoided. Gaps between the
butting edges must be avoided.

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7. Press down with a flooring roller
After 2 ½ to 3 hours (at 20°C) the agglutinated elastic
layer will be rolled by a flooring roller (50 kg) for fixing
the elastic layer on the adhesive. First begin with
rolling when elastic layer cannot be moved. Butting
edges of elastic layer must be weight down with wood
planks or with other weights.

10. Body coat


After hardening of the scratch coat the body coat will
be processed. The body coat is depending of the
system and can be done with MASTERTOP BC 325
N, MASTERTOP BC 325 N FL or MASTERTOP BC
361 N. Application is also with a notched trowel. For
MASTERTOP BC 325 N und BC 325 N FL it is
recommended to de-aerate the little bubbles by rolling
8. Pore sealer with a spiked roller.
2
After hardening of the adhesive the pore-sealer Consumption: ca. 2.5 – 3.0 kg/m
MASTERTOP PS 231 FL will be processed with a
straight edged trowel or a squeegee. Before apply
next layers check if the pore-sealer is free from pores.
Consumption: ca. 0.8 – 1.0 kg/m²

10.1 Design application (e.g. concrete-look)


For the application of decor-floorings with
MASTERTOP BC 361, special application techniques
9. Scratch coat (recommended!) are in use. It is called „wet on wet“-application (e.g
After hardening of the pore-sealer a thin scratch coat „concrete-look“). Here a contrasting colour is spread
is applied with MASTERTOP BC 325 N or in the fresh and wet MASTERTOP BC 361. The
MASTERTOP BC 325 N FL. Process it with a notched contrasting colour will be incorporated with a trowel
trowel. The scratch coat is necessary for levelling the in the fresh surface.
butting edges of the elastic layer.
Consumption: ca. 0.6 – 0.8 kg/m² After a few minutes the contrasting colour is
floating back to the surface. This is the „concrete-
look“.
2
Consumption: ca. 0.2 – 0.4 kg/m (depending on
design)

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
In addition please see below the technical and
application details for:

- movable joints transitions, expansion joint

11.1 Top coat (clear)


At the end, a top coat is processed on the hardened
surface. The top coat MASTERTOP TC 407 W (clear)
is rolled up with a short-piled roller on MASTERTOP
BC 361 N.
2
Consumption: ca. 0.11 – 0.13 kg/m

11.2 Topcoat (coloured)


At the end, a pigmented topcoat is processed on the
hardened surface. The top coat MASTERTOP TC 407
W (pigmented) is rolled up with a short-piled roller on
MASTERTOP BC 325 N or MASTERTOP BC 325 N
FL.
2
Consumption: ca. 0.09 – 0.11 kg/m (1-2 times)
Attention: Some colours make it necessary that the
top coat is processed in at least 2 layers!
(Bright colours or full-pigmented colours)

- transitions between areas with different thickness

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
- end profiles

- stair-edges

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high, palms up and allow the aggregate to fall
between the fingers. If broadcasting into a slurry base,
a greater amount of aggregate is being absorbed and
it is important to allow the floor thickness to build up
slowly. Broadcast a portion of the floor, let it absorb
and return to broadcast again. Broadcasting must be
done to complete refusal.

The broadcaster must monitor areas previously done,


and look for absorption areas. They will appear as
shiny spots. Broadcast additional aggregate until
complete uniformity has been achieved.

It is important not to broadcast the edge that joins the


next section to be base coated. Leave a 1 meter strip
un-seeded to permit the base coat to tie into the next
section of the floor. Remove tape as you proceed with
broadcasting.

Never walk on a freshly broadcast section because


the spike shoes will leave marks in the finished
floor.

After the base coat has cured (4-16 hours, depending


on the resin used), sweep away the excess aggregate
with a stiff-bristled broom. The floor must be
protected from soiling, especially with black heel
marks. Scrape the surface well to remove excessively
projecting grit and to smooth any rough areas. A
drywall scraper, flat trowel or razor blade scraper
works well for this. After the floor has been scraped,
6.1.2 Broadcasting the aggregate sweep again. Vacuum hard to reach areas.

Broadcast aggregates are normally silica sand or Here are some problems which may arise when
decorative coloured quartz sand. The method of broadcasting the quartz sand:
broadcasting the aggregate is very important,
especially in anti-slip flooring systems. Fig.1 Concrete join not filled properly can cause poor
Normally, an applicator wearing spike shoes walks application
onto the wet resin to broadcast the aggregates.
Broadcasting should be done as soon as possible
after the resin application so that spike marks left in
the resin will flow back before the broadcast.

The broadcaster must be certain that the base


material has completely self-levelled before
broadcasting. Trowel marks that have not been
properly back-rolled will absorb more aggregate than
the rest of the area and show up in the cured system
as a ridge. The broadcaster should raise his feet
vertically when walking and avoid scraping or twisting.
If this does occur, re-roll the area before broadcasting
aggregate.

Broadcast the aggregate like sowing seeds for


planting, but cast somewhat higher so that the
aggregate falls as vertically as possible into the wet
base coat.
Avoid throwing down to the surface or dropping
handfuls. If broadcasting from close range, hold hand

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Fig. 2 Irregular body coat broadcast physical state that they are caused by a process of
osmosis.
Blistering which occurs soon after the flooring is
installed is unlikely to be caused by osmosis and is
more likely to result from water contained in the
structure.

Osmotic blisters only occur with thinner synthetic


resin floorings, resin coatings and flow applied
systems up to about 6 mm in thickness. The problem
has not been observed with trowel applied resin
flooring systems, probably because of their higher
resistance to deformation and greater lateral
permeability.

Fig.3 Quartz sand 0.4 – 0.8 mm, uniformly applied till


rejection

6.1.3 Possible other problems:

Osmosis

There are basic two major causes of blisters: either


there is >4% residual misture content in the concrete
slab, or the damp proof membrane is missing or
damaged. If old concrete is found to have high water
content, the cause should be investigated and
rectified (e.g. missing or defect DPM (damp proof
membrane), broken drains or pipe, etc.).

Application of any primer to concrete with a moisture


content of > 4 % leads to a high risk of blisters
forming under the coating as a result of osmosis.
"Osmosis" blisters can form a number of years after
application of the coating.

Osmotic blistering
In a few cases severe blistering of thin synthetic resin
flooring occurs between 3 months and two years after
laying. These blisters commonly vary in size from a
few mm in diameter up to 100 mm, with heights up to
15 mm. When drilled into or otherwise broken, the
blisters are found to contain an aqueous liquid under
very high pressure.

The mechanism of their formation is not fully


understood, but it is assumed that because of their

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Top coat damaging
Damaging of the flooring coverings in the traffic areas
is not always avoidable. MASTERTOP coating
systems are characterized here by a good repair
capacity.
The mechanical and chemical stresses on the floor are
generally higher than in any other building part.
Exposure to pedestrians, forklifts, trolleys are
inevitable and the durability of the flooring system is
also influenced by chemical and thermal factors. This
damage caused by overuse in high traffic areas or by
chemical and thermal stresses cannot be excluded.
Our MASTERTOP flooring systems can be simply
Prevention renovated, even the colour transitions can be
Because the mechanism is not fully understood it is performed without connections and even small
not possible to be specific about the steps which improvements are possible. After many years of use
should be taken to avoid osmotic blistering. However,
the flooring system can be refurbished without
it is considered good practice to take the following
increasing the repairing costs. Performing a re-
steps in order to minimise the risk:
- in new construction ensure the base concrete has topping you can achieve a completely new floor
low soluble salts by avoiding poorly washed surface. This allows resealing if necessary, to create a
aggregates and by curing the concrete well new color scheme. Without affecting the substrate,
immediately after laying to prevent premature surface changing the main use of the building and performing
drying out; a proper re-topping of the flooring system, the life
- allow the concrete to dry out thoroughly after curing, time of the floor can be extended to at least 40 years.
preferably for a minimum of 28 days;
- use mechanical rather than chemical means to A dry damaged top coat in a high trafficable area can
prepare the concrete surface, in particular by avoiding look like this:
the use of acid etching;
- avoid washing the concrete surface with detergent
solutions as part of the preparation procedure;
- completely remove all contamination from existing
floors: this may prove very difficult where the concrete
has been saturated for long periods with water soluble
materials;
- any levelling screeds should preferably be polymer-
modified to minimise permeability and salt migration;
- use water vapour-permeable flooring systems;
- use solvent-free primers rather than water-borne
systems under impervious resin floorings;
- ensure that the synthetic resin flooring is precisely
proportioned, either by weight or volume as specified
by the product manufacturer. Scratches, burns, chemical overuse:

Repair
Where osmosis has occurred, techniques which have
proved successful in preventing the problem
reappearing (after cutting out the affected area and
mechanically cleaning the exposed concrete) include
a double application of a penetrating primer to the
base to ensure complete coverage and maximum
adhesion of the replaced flooring.

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To repair the damaged areas following steps in a - Fresh applied top coat looks glossy if compared with
partial or even large-scale renovation have to be done: the old one
- Abrading the surfaces with a sanding paper or
abrasive pad.

- Matt finish of the dried and cured top coat


- Cleaning the area using detergent and clean dust- compared here with the old one
free solution as (Isopropanol-water 1: 1)

- Masking off the areas where a partial re-topping is


required 6.1.4 Consumption
The consumption of materials depends on the
roughness and the absorbency of the surfaces, the
ambient and material temperatures and the rheology
of the reaction resins used. Consumptions shown in
approvals, system build-ups and technical data
sheets are based on defined ambient conditions (23
°C, 53 % r.h.). Higher or lower temperatures affect the
material viscosity and therefore the material
consumption. The actual consumption must be
determined by the project parameters.
- Application of the top coat in the same colour of the
existing pigmented top coat (Re-Toping) In all technical data sheets and system build-ups a
range of consumption is specified. The lower
consumption value refers to an optimal level, weak
absorbance, and the high consumption value to a
rough, porous surface. Experience shows that usually
the measured real consumption is approximately in
the middle. Furthermore, consumption refers to the
value, if not, otherwise stated, always of the ready-
mixed materials (reaction resin + silica sand).

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6.1.5 Processing 6.2 Seamless transition from floors to walls using
PVC skirting profiles
Two-component MASTERTOP products are supplied
as working packages consisting of specific quantities
of resin and hardener components based on a certain
mix ratio. With bulk packages (e.g. drums or
containers), the mix ratio is not adjusted or only
partially. Partial quantities must be weighed on site
and the product mixed prior to use. Two-component
products must be mixed with a low-speed stirrer (e.g.
drill, compulsory mixer or similar) and subsequently
transferred to another container and then remixed.
Further information on mixing and application is
provided in the individual technical data sheets. - For the application of PVC skirting precisely aligned
surfaces are recommended. Otherwise an optically
For indoor use, good ventilation must be ensured. Fire uniform application cannot be guaranteed. If
and explosion protection as well as site safety necessary, make detailed corrections in advance on
measures must be provided in compliance with the the perimeter walls.
regulations for the prevention of accidents and the - If not already done at the factory, roughen the PVC
directives of the institutions for statutory accident and
profiles using appropriate tools and clean with
prevention.
acetone, for example, to achieve a clean and
6.1.6 Protection measures sustainable surface.
- Cut the fillet profile to measured length and angle
Safety advice and information concerning particular with appropriate tools
risks can be found in the relevant safety data sheets. - Prime and if necessary level the ground and wall
When using reaction resins, it is recommended to surface with Mastertop P660 or Mastertop P 617 for
wear light protective clothing and apply fat and example.
silicone-free ointment to the skin before starting work. - Brush the walls with PU glue/adhesive and glue the
The relevant safety requirements of the institutions for PVC skirting to the wall and clean the vertical
statutory accident and prevention for the chemical components of polyurethane sealants. A gap of 1-1.5
industry must also be observed (as noted in the mm should be left between sections of skirting at
respective technical data sheets). longitudinal joints and at inner and outer corners. The
quality of the single component PU adhesive used to
6.1.7 Hazardous material information stick skirting to the wall is very important. The PU
adhesive may be used from point to point, or on the
Road traffic regulations state that drivers transporting entire length. Glue the strips on by coating the
hazardous materials must exercise due caution in underside and, as needed, the ends with the adhesive
particular in bad weather conditions. According to and press them firmly onto the subsurface. The full
transport regulations, some chemical raw materials length of the strips must be in contact with the
we use for the manufacture of our coating materials subsurface. At the same time, avoid any marks on the
and a number of our products are classified as top side of the strip, for example from masking. Apply
hazardous materials. This generally applies only to the pressure to the profiles to ensure a good bond. Glue
unmixed state. After curing, the coatings and sealants the prepared strips in accordance with the
are physiologically virtually harmless. The precise manufacturer’s instructions.
transport classifications are contained in the relevant - Fill longitudinal joints along the profile with clear
safety data sheets. epoxy resin with added filler. Grind after drying, if
necessary, and apply fine filler with a quick-setting
6.1.8 Shelf life filler (polyester putty) and then polish.
- Inside and outside corners must be sealed with a
MASTERTOP products should be used between 15 flexible polyurethane sealant.
and 25°C. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight. The - When applying PVC cove profiles with slip-resistant
maximum shelf life is indicated on the label under fabric strips, incorporate the fabric strip in a suitable
"Best before…………” polyurethane or epoxy resin primer, such as
Mastertop P 660 or Mastertop P 617.
- Coat the surfaces with the Mastertop floor coating
system, up to the top of the radiused PVC skirting.
The base coat layer may be poured so that it covers
the profile, or only on the floor, however avoid forming

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a 90 degree angle, because the final layer will not be Mastertop WS 300 PU is a smooth fibreglass
able to correct this. reinforced elastic polyurethane wall system, with low
- Seal PVC skirting with pigmented sealer, such as emissions and a matt or satin-matt finish.
Mastertop TC 465/465 AB, Mastertop TC 441P or
Mastertop TC 407 W pigmented. Fields of application:
- A minimum application of two layers is • Industrial and commercial areas
recommended to increase the opacity and resistance • Indoor applications
to abrasion during cleaning/maintenance or further • Medium to heavy impacts
procedures. • For production areas, warehouses and
technical rooms, bathrooms, corridors, hotels,
health care facilities, etc..

Products used in the system build up:


• Primer – depending on substrate
• 1st Body coat: Mastertop PS 231 FL
• Reinforcement: Mastertop GF Mesh
• 2nd Body coat: Mastertop PS 231 FL
• Top coat: Mastertop TC 407 W*
*To be used as per system data sheet description

6.3.2 Substrate requirements and substrate


preparation

From a substrate structural design point of view


whether concrete or other material, the main function
of the resin wall system is to provide a protective
finish.

The substrate should therefore be designed


independently of the wall finish to withstand all
structural, thermal and mechanical stresses which will
occur during service. It must remain stable whilst
protected by the resin wall system, and be provided
with all necessary expansion, contraction and crack
inducement joints to enable it to do so. Failure of the
substrate to remain stable will inevitably affect the
stability of the wall finish.
6.3 Wall Systems
1. Wall systems should generally only be applied to
MASTERTOP WS 300 PU – Application instructions dry substrates (unless the product/system is
specifically designed for damp/wet substrates).
6.3.1 System description
2. Any dirt or loose / friable materials must be
removed.

3. Any surface contaminants such as oil, grease or


wall polish/wax/oils residue etc. must be removed.

4. Any existing old, de-bonded, loose or flaking wall


paint or deteriorating wall materials must be removed
before any new type of wall systems can be applied.
However, firmly-adhering, sound existing wall systems
may be over-coated, but only with an appropriate
Mastertop wall system; the type of wall system which
is appropriate for such over-coating depends on the
type of existing wall and your future performance
requirements.

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5. On new, fully-hardened concrete and cement 6.3.4 Application method
based mortars any curing agent residues or any
cement laitance must always be removed. The a. Primer application: Mastertop P 686 W*–day 1.
concrete or cement substrates must be sufficiently
thick, sound and strong enough to meet your service
requirements.

As an example for commercial facilities, a


compressive strength of at least 25 MPa and a pull-off
strength of at least 1.5 N/mm² (tested with a Herion
adhesion tester or similar device at a pull rate of 100
N/s) is recommended. Mechanical surface profiling by
grinding (including necessary post-treatment) is the
preferred wall preparation method.

After substrate preparation please check the


roughness of the substrates and make all necessary
local repairs using a suitable product which meets the
substrate requirements and is compatible with the
Mastertop WS 300 PU system.
MASTERTOP P 686 W is supplied in working packs
which are pre-packaged in the exact ratio. Before
mixing, precondition both A and B components to a
temperature of approximately 15 to 25 °C. Pour the
entire contents of Part B into the pail of Part A.
DO NOT MIX BY HAND.

Mix with a mechanical drill and paddle at a very low


speed (approx. 300 rpm) for at least 3 minutes.
Scrape the sides and the bottom of the pail several
times to ensure complete mixing. Keep the mixer
blades submerged in the coating to avoid introducing
air bubbles.

6.3.3 Ambient requirements *Example; the primer must be selected according to


the substrate type and quality.
When using reaction resins, ambient and processing
temperatures as well as relative humidity are very
important. At low temperatures curing is retarded and
an increase in viscosity causes higher product
consumption. Application may also be negatively
affected. In contrast, high temperatures accelerate
curing and reduce the open time of the product.

The substrate temperature must be at least 3°C above


the dew point in order to eliminate the risk of
condensation on the substrate. If this limit is reached,
work must be interrupted immediately. When using
water-based systems, it is important to note that
humidity significantly increases when water
evaporates and this leads to a change in the dew
point.

After application, the products should be protected DO NOT WORK OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PAIL.
from water exposure for the period of time specified in After proper mixing to a homogeneous consistency,
the technical data sheet, otherwise this can lead to pour the mixed parts A and B into a fresh pail and mix
white discoloured areas, tackiness, blistering or for another minute. After mixing MASTERTOP P 686
foaming in the wall system. Damaged surfaces must W, adjust to the working consistency by adding 20 -
be removed mechanically and built up again. 40 % by weight of water under constant stirring.

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- Ensure that the primer is visible on substrate

MASTERTOP P 686 W should be applied when the


ambient temperature is constant or falling; indeed this
will decrease the risk of bubble formation due to
expansion of air enclosed in the substrate.

MASTERTOP P 686 W is applied to the prepared


substrate by rolling. As a water-based product
microfiber rollers with 9-11 mm pile length may be b. First Body Coat application: Mastertop PS 231 FL
used. – day 2.
- Water dilution – 30%
MASTERTOP PS 231 FL is a solvent free, low
- Roll application
emission, pigmented and fire retardant, 2-component
- Tools needed: roller and brush, small rollers for
polyurethane pore sealer.
edges, corner, etc.
- Prime the details first

MASTERTOP PS 231 FL is supplied in the correct


proportions of component A (resin) and component B
(hardener).

- continue with large areas

Pour component B into component A and ensure that


container B is emptied completely. To achieve a
homogeneous mix, thoroughly mix with a slowly
rotating mixing device at about 300 rev/min. Ensure
that the mixing device reaches the sides and bottom
of the mixing vessel.

The mixing process takes at least two minutes and


should be performed until the blend is homogeneous

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and streak free. Pour the mix into another clean pail 12 hours (at 15 °C). Within this period, contact with
and mix it again for one additional minute. The water can cause bubbles or foaming on the surface.
temperature of both components should be between
15-25 °C.

c. Fiberglass reinforcement: Mastertop GF Mesh –


When thoroughly mixed, the material is applied to the day 2.
primed substrate with a straight-edged metal trowel.
In order to achieve the coverage rate indicated, a Mastertop GF Mesh is a high tensile strength
constant pressure must be applied to the trowel. On a fiberglass mesh. It prevents wall cracks and adds
well primed substrate, the consumption of the body impact resistance to MASTERTOP WS 300 PU
coat should be between 1-1.2 kg/sqm. polyurethane wall systems.

The material coverage depends on the surface


structure as well as on the substrate, material and
ambient temperature.

The pot life and curing time of MASTERTOP PS 231


FL are influenced by the material and substrate
temperature. At low temperatures, chemical reactions
are generally slowed down; this lengthens the pot life,
re-coating interval and open time. In the meantime,
viscosity increases which leads to higher con-
sumption. High temperature and humidity accelerate
chemical reactions.

At this stage all the technical details, corner profiles


and thermal shock protective tapes should be MASTERTOP GF Mesh is used to add a re-inforcing
installed. layer, in combination with proper PU materials, and
increase the impact resistance of the final
MASTERTOP WS 300 PU wall system.

Press the fibreglass mesh directly into the fresh two-


component polyurethane pore sealer MASTERTOP PS
231 FL. Press the mesh into the sealer from top to
bottom, with a metal or hard plastic smooth trowel.
Ensure that the resin comes evenly through the pores
of the mesh.

To ensure proper curing, the material, the substrate


and operating temperature must not fall below the
minimum.
After application, MASTERTOP PS 231 FL should be
protected from direct contact with water for approx.

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The grinding operation should be performed when the
previous layer is tack-free. Avoid grinding while it is
still sticky.
The grit size of the grinding paper should be in the
range of 80 – 160 microns. This operation may be
It is recommended that the mesh is unrolled
performed with an industrial or manual grinder,
approximately 6 hours before fixing and cut to the
depending on the area to be ground, and using a
right size in advance. Consult the system data sheet
regular rotation speed.
for detailed application steps.
Avoid grinding in the same area for too long as there
may be a risk of damaging the surface; use a left-right
motion and move the grinder constantly.

d. Second Body Coat application: Mastertop PS 231


FL – day 3. f. Top coat application: Mastertop TC 407 W
(pigmented)* – day 4/5.
Please refer to the steps described above under“4.2
First Body coat application: Mastertop PS 231 FL – MASTERTOP TC 407 W is a water-based, solvent
day 2”. free, low emission, pigmented two component PU top
Allow the 1st bodycoat and the mesh to dry for at coat which cures to a matt finish.
least 12 hours before beginning application of the
second body coat layer.

e. Grinding: Mastertop PS 231 FL – day 3/4.


MASTERTOP TC 407 W is designed for use as a wear
The second body coat must be ground in order to resistant top coat on flexible polyurethane wall
ensure a proper surface for top coat application. systems such as MASTERTOP WS 300 PU.

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
The coating to which MASTERTOP TC 407 W is
applied should be clean and dry.

Application should take place within the recoat


intervals of the coating to which it has to be applied.
The substrate temperature should be at least 3 K
above the dew point.
MASTERTOP TC 407 W is supplied in working packs
which are pre-packaged in the exact ratio. As with all water-based sealers, it is important to
Before mixing, precondition both A and B avoid dry edges by always working wet in wet when
components to a temperature of approximately 15 to overlapping, otherwise roller marks will be visible in
25 °C. Pour the entire contents of Parts A and B into a the final wall system finish. Use a max. 40 cm,
clean pail. DO NOT MIX BY HAND. medium roller (smaller ones when working close to the
Mix with a mechanical drill and paddle at a low speed corners, edges, details, etc.) start in the middle of one
(approx. 300 rpm) for at least 3 minutes. Scrape the of the short sides of the wall.
sides and the bottom of the pail several times to Dip the roller into the mixed material and roll out a
ensure complete mixing. Keep the mixer blades strip of MASTERTOP TC 407 W parallel to the floor as
submerged in the coating to avoid introducing air far as one of the corners. Dip the roller into the
bubbles. material once again and roll out a second strip from
DO NOT WORK OUT OF THE PAIL USED FOR the starting point out to the other corner. Move
MIXING. After proper mixing to a homogeneous upwards and repeat these steps, overlapping the first
consistency pour the mixed Parts A and B into a fresh strip by a few cm.
pail and mix for another minute.
* These application instructions are for MASTERTOP
g. Top coat application by trowel (1st step) TC 407 W (PIGMENTED), but other suitable top coats
can be used in the system.
When thoroughly mixed, the material is applied to the
substrate with a straight-edged metall trowel with For suitable tools and other technical details please
flexible blade. In order to achieve the coverage rate consult your local technical service.
indicated, constant pressure must be applied to the
trowel. On well applied and ground body coats, the 7. General notes on colours
consumption of the first top coat layer should be
between 0.08 – 0.1 kg/sqm. Classification of RAL colours in price groups for
MASTERTOP and CONIPUR body coats and top
coats

RAL colours: Pastel tones:


Price group 1 (PG 1)

1000, 1001, 1002, 1011, 1013, 1014, 1015, 1019,


1020, 1024, 3009, 3012, 3015, 4009, 5007, 5009,
5012, 5014, 5015, 5024, 6006, 6011, 6013, 6014,
6015, 6019, 6021, 6033, 6034, 7000, 7001, 7002,
7003, 7004, 7005, 7006, 7008, 7009, 7010, 7011,
7012, 7013, 7015, 7016, 7021, 7022, 7023, 7024,
7026, 7030, 7031, 7032, 7033, 7034, 7035, 7036,
7037, 7038, 7039, 7040, 7042, 7043, 7044, 7045,
7046, 7047, 8001, 8002, 8007, 8012, 8015, 8017,
8019, 8022, 9001, 9002, 9003, 9004, 9005, 9010,
9011, 9016, 9017, 9018
h. Top coat application by roller (2nd step)
RAL colours: Colourful tones
When thoroughly mixed, the material is applied to the Price group 2 (PG 2)
substrate with a microfibre roller with 6-8 mm pile
length. In order to achieve the coverage rate 1033, 1004, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1012, 1016, 1017,
indicated, constant pressure must be applied to the 1018, 1020, 1021, 1023, 1027, 1032, 1033, 1034,
roller. The consumption of the second top coat layer 1037, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, 2009,
should be between 0.06 – 0.09 kg/sqm. 2010, 2011, 2012, 3000, 3001, 3002, 3003, 3004,
3005, 3007, 3011, 3013, 3014, 3016, 3017, 3018,

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
3020, 3022, 3027, 3031, 4001, 4002, 4004, 4005, using sealers on broadcast and homogeneous
4007, 4009, 5000, 5002, 5003, 5004, 5005, 5010, surfaces it may be necessary to increase consumption
5011, 5013, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5021, 5022, to ensure better opacity, or to apply two layers of top
5023, 6000, 6001, 6002, 6003, 6007, 6008, 6009, coat (e.g. for RAL 9003, 2004, 3002 etc.).
6010, 6012, 6016, 6017, 6018, 6020, 6022, 6024,
6025, 6026, 6027, 6028, 6029, 6032, 8000, 8003, Yellowing: Aromatic polyurethanes (e.g. MASTERTOP
8004, 8008, 8011, 8014, 8016, 8023, 8024, 8025, BC 375 N, MASTERTOP BC 325 N etc.) and epoxy
8028, resins tend to yellowing under UV influence (in indoor
Colours not able to be reproduced: and outdoor areas). This is especially for the brighter
1026, 1028, 1035, 1036, 2005, 2007, 2013, 3024, colours. The coating materials are also subject to
3026, 3032, 3033, 4003, 4006, 4008, 4010, 4011, varying degrees of ageing, depending on the binder
4012, 5025, 5026, 6035, 6036, 7048, 8029, 9007, used. This should be considered where work on the
9022, 9023 same project is to be executed a different points in
time. The use of aliphatic transparent sealers reduces
Note: Because of the variety of body coats and top the yellowing of homogeneous and broadcast
coats in our product portfolio, not all of the above coatings, but does not prevent it. Pigmented aliphatic
colours are formulated or available for all products. sealers are virtually non-yellowing. Nevertheless, even
Some body coats are only available as “circa” here ageing and wear cause colour differences. More
(approximate) colours. Here we recommend information may be found in the above matrix of top
application of a top coat in the desired colours in two coats.
layers. Please note when ordering that a longer
delivery time may apply. Delivery times can be Batch manufacturing: Where several deliveries are
supplied on request. made to the same project, please indicate this in your
orders so that colours can be matched to the first
Note for colour selection: delivery. This requires subsequent orders to specify
For darker or highly pigmented colours it is possible the project, together with the order or batch numbers
that despite care taken during processing there may supplied. The use of different products on the same
be shadings or fine structures visible in the finished project may also result in colour variations. In such
surface. This effect is systemic in nature and does not cases colour matching from product to product is not
affect the product suitability. More highly pigmented possible.
colours may also have increased “colour” abrasion. In There is also no colour matching for MASTERTOP BC
these cases an additional transparent top coat should 325 N. This product is generally produced by a ∆E of
be applied. If in doubt, a test area for evaluation < 2, because this body coat must usually be sealed
should be created in advance. with a pigmented top coat. With bright colours, a
double application is required. MASTERTOP BC 375
Other colour standards: N is also produced with a ∆E of < 2, because without
More colours according to the standards of RAL, a top coat the product tends to yellowing under the
RAL-design, NCS or other colour standards will be influence of UV light.
classified in the above groups (colourful or pastel)
depending on intensity of the colour. Due to the Conductive coatings and sealers: These products
variety of colours and shades, these are not listed in have some colour differences to similar non-
the price list. Please contact your local sales conductive products because they have conductive
consultant or customer centre for further details. fillers included, resulting in colour differences to the
original colours. Conductive products can be
Notes on colours: delivered in only a limited colour range. Depending on
Please note that levelling mortars and the addition of the colour of the conductive products, the special
fillers in the coatings may cause a change in colour fillers may be visible on the surface. The use of
from the original colour standard, because the fillers polishes, waxes and cleaners can cause changes in
(such as silica sand or coloured silica sand) have an structure and gloss of the surface. We recommend in
inherent colour. Even raw material fluctuations and the such cases that a sample is made on site, also
natural colour of the resins themselves may cause because existing lighting and windows can change
deviations from the original colours. Information on the perception of colour. When using conductive
colours, such as RAL or NCS references, is defined as polishes and waxes, ensure that they do not adversely
“circa” (approximate) colours. Depending on the influence any affect pre-tests and measurements
binder and gloss of the surface, deviations from carried out to ensure the declared value of the
reference colours standards are possible. Due to system.
manufacturing tolerances, a hue equal to colour
standards cannot be guaranteed. This is especially 8. Tools and suppliers – please refer to the Annex 4.
true of unsealed or sealed transparent surfaces. When

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
9. Glossary / Definitions / Abbreviations the product. By affixing the CE marking the
manufacturer confirms that the product complies
AB: Abbreviation for antibacterial with the applicable European Directives. Products
that can be applied to the nature or character of EC
Abrasion: In the friction of solid bodies occurring directives must bear the CE marking before they can
abrasive wear, e.g. the abrasion during the transfer be placed on the market and put into operation.
of braking and driving forces between rollers or tires
and the coating. Chemical resistance: Resistance of a coating system
up to the destruction by exposure with media such as
Abrasion resistance: Resistance of a surface to solvents, acids, bases etc.
mechanical stress.
CM-measuring equipment: With the CM-measuring
Adhesion promoter: Adhesion promoters are equipment, the residual moisture in concrete and
usually applied in very thin layers to produce a screeds are determined: The procedure is described
sufficient connection between different materials in the Annex to RILI SIB and ZTV ING
and coatings.
Compressive strength: In the compression test
Ambient temperature: Minimum temperature defined value for the resistance to compressive
during the processing of a substance in the forces (values not determined by the system, but by
building and the environment (air temperature) must a prism).
be respected. The information on this will be
specifically stated in the relevant product data Conductivity: The conductivity refers to the
sheets. property, to transfer electrical energy. To what
extent this happens determines the resistance of
AS: Abbreviation for antistatic (see also conductive) the material, measured in ohms. Floors should have
such a low resistance on the one hand, that no
Bacteriostatic: Prevent the growth of bacteria electrostatic charge occurs on the other hand must
not fall below a certain value to avoid the touch of a
Bonding strength/tensile strength: Liability of two voltage source of dangerous power lines through the
successive layers, such as coating on primer or human body. As an indication of a resistance is <1
primer on subsoil. The bond strength will be Mega Ohm = 106 Ohm). Measured according to DIN
measured with special pull-off tester with defined test EN 1081 for the Ex-protection or for the ESD
stamps. In accordance with ZTV- ING/RILI SIB 2001 protection in the electronic industry in accordance
and EN 1504-2 this value should be on average at with DIN EN 61340-4-1. They are set for ex-
least 1.5 N / mm ². protection in the BGR set 132 (BG rules for health and
safety at work) and in EN 61340-5-1
Carbamate (white surface): Whitish discoloration
of an EP-coating through inappropriate Core drilling: With a core drilling, implementation
application of the coating material by reaction with by a core drilling machine to get out a part of the
CO2 and water from the ambient air. subsoil with a diameter of 50-100 mm. The shape of
the drill core is cylindrical. With this cylinder can e.g.
Cavities: Small cavities with a few millimeters in the compressive strength or the structure (pores,
diameter (usually air), resulting from the introduction aggregates dispersal), or the carbonation depth
of concrete into the formwork. Most of these avoids and the chloride content of concrete be determined.
on the concrete surface are covered with a thin
laitance, these will be visible only by a mechanical Curing: Full transition of the binder from a liquid to a
processing of the concrete surface (e.g. sand solid state.
blasting, grinding)..
Crack bridging: The ability of a coating to bridge
Cavity scratch coat: Scratch coat for a closure some cracks in a surface, caused by dynamic
of cavities, without significantly changing the or static stress in the surface.
surface structure of the concrete surface. In most
cases PCC-finishing coats are applied. DafStb: Abbreviation to "Deutscher Ausschuss für
Stahlbeton" (German Committee for Reinforced
CE-marking. The CE marking is a marking according Concrete)
to EU law for certain products in connection with

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
De-icing salt: De-icing agents are mainly used on Fire behavior: In the fire test determined behaviour of
roads and thus in the bridge area and multi storey building materials and building constructions. (e.g. EN
car parks to bring ice and snow to melt. De-icing 13501-1 for flooring)
salts are chlorides and can penetrate through the
capillary pores and cracks in the concrete structure. Flexural strength: This defines the values, which
The residual salt in the concrete can cause damages gives rise to a bending stress component in the
to the reinforcement through corrosion (chlorides). compression or the tension zone until the first
When concrete repairs must be done, surfaces cracks are visible. It is determined be the bending
which are contaminated with chlorides should be test. Unit: N/mm²
removed completely.
Fresh concrete: Ready mixed, unconsolidated
Density: The density (symbol: ρ; abbreviation: D.) concrete
of a single substance is defined as the mass of a
volume unit, also the mass in g (or kg) which is GIS Code: GIS = Gefahrstoff-Informations-System –
content of 1 cm³ (or 1 l), e.g. water 0,998 g/cm³ (German hazard information system)
(kg/l).
Glass transition temperature: The glass transition or
Dew point temperature: Temperature, at which the softening temperature (TG) is the temperature at
air is saturated with water vapour and if this which one has the greatest change in the plastic
saturated air coming on cold surfaces or the deformation ability. This so-called glass transition
temperature is falling to the dew point, a separates the things below brittle area (= glass area)
condensation occurs. Such as when warm air meets lying above the soft region (= rubber elastic range).
cold concrete surfaces (see dew point table).
Green concrete/young concrete: Ready built in
EP: Abbreviation for an epoxy resin. concrete, immediately after densify and before
hardening. A stability (base strength) to commit is
ESD: ESD-electrostatic discharge: Transfer of given. (About 1-10 days old)
charge between bodies with different electrostatic
potential through direct contact or through an Hygrometer: Moisture meter to determine the
electrostatic field. relative humidity (RH) measured in %. Important to
monitor the construction work and to determine the
ESDS: Against electrostatic discharge sensitive dew point.
devices: Individual components, integrated circuits,
electrical components, which may be damaged ISO 9000 ff: Standard for quality systems in the
during manufacturing process. Certification to ISO 9000
means that a documented quality assurance system
Filling ratio: Describes the ratio, for example an is in place.
epoxy resin to the aggregates of quartz sands, given
in parts by weight. This means for example 1:3, that Kelvin: Measure of temperature. The scale of the
one part by weight of epoxy resin with three weight display is identical to the Celsius degree
parts of quartz sand is composed of a mixture. The classification. The scale zero is absolute zero at
filling ratio can also be given in weight -%. handling, about minus 273 degrees Celsius. In Kelvin's not
their examination or their transport by electrostatic freezing to be defined. Temperature differences are
fields or electrostatic discharge. usually indicated in Kelvin (K).

Fillers: In the majority of cases mineral components Mechanical load:


that are already included in the packaged coating Low: low loads, e.g. pedestrian traffic, office chairs
materials, but they are also added to the coating Middle: middle loads, e.g. forklift traffic, hospital beds
materials on the working site to adjust the High: heavy loads, e.g. fork lift truck traffic
consistency and improve the system properties or
change, such as increasing the film thickness. It is Moisture content: During concrete repairs or
important, that the fillers which are added, are oven coating processes the moisture content should
dried because of the moisture sensitivity of reaction be below 4 % (weight percentage) of water in the
resins. Examples of fillers: silica sand, granite and upper 20 mm thick concrete (or screed) layer. If this
hard materials, silicon carbide, etc. moisture content is exceeding the 4 %, it may
damage the coating with thermosetting resin systems.

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
The measurement of moisture in the concrete can be polymer has a structural element that is similar to
performed with a CM device. Please note some urea.
special epoxy resins which are suitable by
higher moisture content. Pot-life: Time in which the coating material,
depending on the initial quantity (container) and the
Moisture from backside: This effect can occur when ambient and material temperature have a consistency
moisture for example due to the lack of waterproofing that allow applying the material on the subsoil.
membrane penetrates from the outside or as excess
Pour mixed material in fresh container: If two-or
mixing water remained in concrete. By the
multi-component resins are used, the
occurrence of this effect specifically tested primers
homogeneous mixing of the material is very
and coatings must be used.
important. Mostly the component B (hardener) is
poured into the container of the component A (resin).
Mortar bonding agent: Connecting layer between During the subsequent mixing in the container
hardened concrete/screed to be applied for mineral unmixed material remains at the edges. To avoid
coating materials from hydraulically setting mortar. A this, the mixture is poured into a clean fresh
bonding agent can be produced with a cement container and stirred again to obtain a completely
bonding slurry or water based special resin. homogenous mixture of the two components.

Magnesia screed / („stone wood screed“): Mixture Pre-wetting: Surfaces to be coated with hydraulically
of magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, additives setting mortar must be pre-wetted, to fill the pores
and fillers (earlier sawdust or asbestos fibres). Steel of the porous concrete surface with water. A
parts, which are in contact with magnesite screeds pre-wetting of the concrete surface is even before
are rusting (rust supporting substances). To coat application of bonding slurry or bonding primer
magnesite screeds special measures must are taken. needed by the manufacturer guidelines.

Mixing ratio: Mixing ratio for two and multi- Reactive resin: Liquid resin that hardens by
component coating materials and mortars, in which chemical reaction.
the ratio of the components is usually expressed in
parts by weight. (See also fillers) Re-coating time/re-coating interval: Possibility of
applying coatings on existing layers with a sufficient
Newton (N): International unit of measurement in bond strength and sufficient hardness for light traffic
physics for the force (symbol = N). A Newton is thus (pedestrian traffic).
named at a mean acceleration of gravity at sea level
of g = 9.81 m / s ², the weight of a body mass of 102 Residual moisture: Concretes and screeds as well
g. (after the physicist Isaac Newton) as various woods always have a certain residual
moisture or balance-moisture. The residual moisture
Osmosis: In practice often damages observed like in cement surfaces should be max. 4% (CM) or less.
the formation of bubbles under or in coatings due to For other substrates and higher residual moistures
osmotic processes. Under osmosis we understand are to lead consultations with the material
the passage of a liquid (e.g. water) through a semi- manufacturer.
permeable membrane (such as a coating), if there are
any different concentrations (e.g. salt particles, Scratch coat/levelling layer: Scratch coats are
corrosion products) of a soluble substance on both with mineral fillers added epoxy or polyurethane
sides of the membrane. Here is the passage of the resins layers to equalize rough surfaces in order to
liquid called towards the concentrated solution obtain a subsequent coating for a flat surface. The
(which will be diluted to some extent) and results in layer will only be „scratched“ on to the floor.
an increase in internal pressure (called osmotic
pressure), combined with the occurrence of water- Shot blasting: Shot blasting is an effective and
filled bladders, e.g. between the subsoil and economical blasting method, preferably for horizontal
coating or between layers of a coating system. surfaces. Small steel balls are thrown with a spinner-
wheel on the concrete/screed surface and
Polyurethane (PU): Polyurethanes are polymers or during the rebound with the worn concrete re-
resins which arise from the poly-addition of diols or absorbed and processed (separation of the steel
polyols with polyisocyanates. balls from the removed material).

Polyurea (PUA): Polyureas are polymers produced Slip resistance/skid resistance: Resistance against
by the poly-addition of isocyanides and amines. The sliding friction as a floor covering when
committing through people. The investigation and

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
evaluation of anti-slip properties of floor coverings Thixotropic agent: Additive which is added in
will be tested with the walking method on an inclined different coatings to thicken, so that coatings could
plane. The lubricant and the shoes of the subjects are be applied on vertical or inclined surfaces without
prescribed. The properties of the surface are running down of the coatings.
classified in five assessment groups R 9 to R 13 or
assessed to a sliding friction value, measured with a Top coat: Top coats are the final layer of smooth
special device (FSC = Floor Slide Control). and sand broadcasted coating surfaces.

Silica sand/ quartz sand (QS): Mineral aggregate for Total solid: Epoxy resins with a mass loss I <1%
broadcast surfaces and filling of coatings. Silica mass loss II <2% according to DIN 16945 (by
sand is supplied in various particle groups and recommendation of the German Construction
usually has a light gray to light brown (beige) colour. Chemicals Association (formerly known as solvent-
Quartz sands which are used for coatings must be free)
dried by oven. Depending on the basic colour of the
filler this can also affect the colour of the coating. UV-stable / UV-resistant: Coating materials that
have no or only minor changes in the properties
Solvent: Solvents or thinners set the viscosity of (colour, abrasion ...) under the influence of UV light.
resin systems down. For high thicknesses of coatings
are these not suitable, because they do not volatilize Vapour diffusion: When molecules of a gaseous
or volatilize very slow and can lead bubbles in the substance penetrate into another substance we call
coatings. Solvents are volatile liquids and can be this diffusion. As vapour diffusion refers the diffusion
ingredients of certain resin systems, e. g. Alcohols of water vapour.
and hydrocarbons. Solvent can usually not improve
the penetration of resins into porous subsoil because Viscosity: Viscosity is a measure of the flow ability of
the molecular structure of the resin is not changed! a liquid. The bigger the viscosity, the more viscous
(less flow able) is the liquid, the lower the viscosity,
Solvent free: Coatings with a solvent-free binder the thinner (flow able) it is. Unit: mPas.
(without solvent), with a minimum solvent content
below 0.5% resulting from contamination. See also Water borne coatings: The coating binder can be
"total solid". diluted with water or the viscosity can be adjusted
with water.
Solvent (low content): Coatings with a maximum
solvent content of 5 % (contains solvent).

Solvent (content): Coatings with a maximum


solvent content of 10 % (contains solvent).

Solvent (high content): Coatings with a solvent


content over 10 % (contains solvent).

Standard colours: Colours within the product range,


which are classified in price group 1 and are usually
available from stock.

Storage stability/shelf-life-time: Period of time after


production, within a properly stored coating product
may be used and thereby retain its functional
properties.

Substrate pre-treatment: For the coating of


substrates a subsoil preparation is necessary to
remove grease, oil, cement or corrosion. As subsoil
preparation methods like sand blasting, shot blasting,
milling, grinding, flame radiation and wet sand
blasting are known (mechanical cleaning).

Surface hardness: Resistance of the coating


against impressions, for example, a loaded steel
ball.

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Annex 1: Dew Point table

How to identify the dew point using the air temperature and relative humidity:

Air relative humidity

Air 30 % 35 % 40 % 45 % 50 % 55 % 60 % 65 % 70 % 75 % 80 % 85 % 90 % 95 %
-10 °C -23,2 -21,8 -20,4 -19,0 -17,8 -16,7 -15,8 -14,9 -14,1 -13,3 -12,6 -11,9 -10,6 -10,0
-5 °C -18,9 -17,2 -15,8 -14,5 -13,3 -11,9 -10,9 -10,2 -9,3 -8,8 -8,1 -7,7 -6,5 -5,8
0 °C -14,5 -12,8 -11,3 -9,9 -8,7 -7,5 -6,2 -5,3 -4,4 -3,5 -2,8 -2,0 -1,3 -0,7
2 °C -12,8 -11,0 -9,5 -8,1 -6,8 -5,8 -4,7 -3,6 -2,6 -1,7 -1,0 -0,2 -0,6 1,3
4 °C -11,3 -9,5 -7,9 -6,5 -4,9 -4,0 -3,0 -1,9 -1,0 0,0 0,8 1,6 2,4 3,2
5 °C -10,5 -8,7 -7,3 -5,7 -4,3 -3,3 -2,2 -1,1 -0,1 0,7 1,6 2,5 3,3 4,1
6 °C -9,5 -7,7 -6,0 -4,5 -3,3 -2,3 -1,1 -0,1 0,8 1,8 2,7 3,6 4,5 5,3
7 °C -9,0 -7,2 -5,5 -4,0 -2,8 -1,5 -0,5 0,7 1,6 2,5 3,4 4,3 5,2 6,1
8 °C -8,2 -6,3 -4,7 -3,3 -2,1 -0,9 0,3 1,3 2,3 3,4 4,5 5,4 6,2 7,1
9 °C -7,5 -5,5 -3,9 -2,5 -1,2 0,0 1,2 2,4 3,4 4,5 5,5 6,4 7,3 8,2
10 °C -6,7 -5,2 -3,2 -1,7 -0,3 0,8 2,2 3,2 4,4 5,5 6,4 7,3 8,2 9,1
11 °C -6,0 -4,0 -2,4 -0,9 0,5 1,8 3,0 4,2 5,3 6,3 7,4 8,3 9,2 10,1
12 °C -4,9 -3,3 -1,6 -0,1 1,6 2,8 4,1 5,2 6,3 7,5 8,6 9,5 10,4 11,2
13 °C -4,3 -2,5 -0,7 0,7 2,2 3,6 5,2 6,4 7,5 8,4 9,5 10,5 11,5 12,3
14 °C -3,7 -1,7 0,0 1,5 3,0 4,5 5,8 7,0 8,2 9,3 10,3 11,2 12,1 13,1
15 °C -2,9 -1,0 0,8 2,4 4,0 5,5 6,7 8,0 9,2 10,2 11,2 12,2 13,1 14,1
16 °C -2,1 -0,1 1,5 3,2 5,0 6,3 7,6 9,0 10,2 11,3 12,2 13,2 14,2 15,1
17 °C -1,3 0,6 2,5 4,3 5,9 7,2 8,8 10,0 11,2 12,2 13,3 14,3 15,2 16,6
18 °C -0,5 1,5 3,2 5,3 6,8 8,2 9,6 11,0 12,2 13,2 14,2 15,3 16,2 17,1
19 °C 0,3 2,2 4,2 6,0 7,7 9,2 10,5 11,7 13,0 14,2 15,2 16,3 17,2 18,1
20 °C 1,0 3,1 5,2 7,0 8,7 10,2 11,5 12,8 14,0 15,2 16,2 17,2 18,1 19,1
21 °C 1,8 4,0 6,0 7,9 9,5 11,1 12,4 13,5 15,0 16,2 17,2 18,1 19,1 20,0
22 °C 2,5 5,0 6,9 8,8 10,5 11,9 13,5 14,8 16,0 17,0 18,0 19,0 20,0 21,0
23 °C 3,5 5,7 7,8 9,8 11,5 12,9 14,3 15,7 16,9 18,1 19,1 20,0 21,0 22,0
24 °C 4,3 6,7 8,8 10,8 12,3 13,8 15,3 16,5 17,8 19,0 20,1 21,1 22,0 23,0
25 °C 5,2 7,5 9,7 11,5 13,1 14,7 16,2 17,5 18,8 20,0 21,1 22,1 23,0 24,0
26 °C 6,0 8,5 10,6 12,4 14,2 15,8 17,2 18,5 19,8 21,0 22,2 23,1 24,1 25,1
27 °C 6,9 9,5 11,4 13,3 15,2 16,5 18,1 19,5 20,7 21,9 23,1 24,1 25,0 26,1
28 °C 7,7 10,2 12,2 14,2 16,0 17,5 19,0 20,3 21,7 22,8 24,0 25,1 26,1 27,0
29 °C 8,7 11,1 13,1 15,1 16,8 18,5 19,9 21,3 22,5 22,8 25,0 26,0 27,0 28,0
30 °C 9,5 11,8 13,9 16,0 17,7 19,7 21,3 22,5 23,8 25,0 26,1 27,1 28,1 29,0
32 °C 11,2 13,8 16,0 17,9 19,7 21,4 22,8 24,3 25,6 26,7 28,0 29,2 30,2 31,1
34 °C 12,5 15,2 17,2 19,2 21,1 22,8 24,2 25,7 27,0 28,3 29,4 31,1 31,9 33,0
36 °C 14,6 17,1 19,4 21,5 23,2 25,0 26,3 28,0 29,3 30,7 31,8 32,8 34,0 35,1
38 °C 16,3 18,8 21,3 23,4 25,1 26,7 28,3 29,9 31,2 32,3 33,5 34,6 35,7 36,9
40 °C 17,9 20,6 22,6 25,0 26,9 28,7 30,3 31,7 33,0 34,3 35,6 36,8 38,0 39,0

Example: At a temperature of 10° C and 80% RH, the dew point is at an object temperature of 6.4° C.
The surface thermometer shows a value of 6.4° C + 3 K = 9.4° C, therefore coating work is no longer possible.

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Annex 2: Primer matrix

Annex 3: Top coat matrix

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Annex 4: Tools and suppliers

Blastrac: http://www.blastrac.eu/europe/welcome-to-blastrac.html

Trimmer: http://www.trimmer.it/en/company-profile.html

Trimmer S.r.l.
P.lva: 00872020169
Offices and factory: 26843, Castelnuovo Bocca Dadda (Lodi) – Italy
Tel: +390377700125
Fax: +39037760681
Email: info@trimmer.it

Testing: http://www.testing.de/en/start_en.html

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
HTC: http://www.htc-floorsystems.com/en.aspx

Tools and accessories:

PPW Polyplan: http://www.polyplan.com/cgi-bin/adframe/weka/en/index.html

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Multitool: http://www.multitool.de/

Frike: http://www.frike-geraete.ch/data/

BASF: contact Product Management team in Schaffhausen

Please contact us for No. 18 rubber tooth squeegees – for use when applying Mastertop BC 327 FL.

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Trimmer: http://www.trimmer.it/en/company-profile.html

Mixing equipment:

Multitool: http://www.multitool.de/

PPW Polyplan: http://www.polyplan.com/cgi-bin/adframe/weka/en/index.html

Collomix: http://www.collomix.de/index.php?id=produkte_baumischtechnik&L=1

Contact details for Collomix (International):

http://www.collomix.de/index.php?id=vertriebspartner_bmt&L=1&PHPSESSID=a79fc6a40b26319957a5f80
4ed62d1a7

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
6.5.5 Special grinders (Mastertop DCT, WS 200 PU and WS 300 PU):

Festool: http://www.festool.de/Global/Seiten/Kontakt.aspx (for Wall systems)

Lägler: http://www.laegler.com/eng/index.php
(for Mastertop DCT)

Eugen Lägler GmbH · Maschinenbau


Kappelrain 2
D-74363 Güglingen-Frauenzimmern
Phone +49 (0)7135 / 9890 - 0
Fax +49 (0)7135 / 9890 - 98
e-mail: info@laegler.com

PVC profiles for coving:

Reuss Profiltechnik: http://www.reuss-profiltechnik.de/

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621
Korte Bauteile GmbH: wwww.korte.de

MSP: www.ernst-schanz.com

Other suppliers may also be used, but please make sure that technical specifications are fulfilled.

Whilst any information contained herein is true, accurate and represents our best knowledge and experience, no warranty
is given or implied with any recommendations made by us, our representatives or distributors, as the conditions of use
and the competence of any labour involved in the application are beyond our control

BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, CH-8207 Schaffhausen, Industriestrasse 26, Tel: +41 58 958 2551, Fax: +41 58 958 3621

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