What is Oxicrete in Construction?

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Oxicrete is an acid system applied to cement surfaces like dam structures, polymer-modified screeds, and mortars to oxidize them and provide a stone-like or rusty iron appearance.

The thickness of the coating ranges from 3-6 mm and provides a smooth matte finish. Oxicrete is an ideal option to transform old concrete surfaces. Also, it is a cheaper alternative to Corten steel.

Preferable Conditions for Application of Oxicrete

• Ambient, material, and substrate temperature should be between 15-30 ^oC.
• The components of oxicrete should be stored in a cool area.
• Before the application of oxicrete and until at least 48 hours after application, the floor's temperature should be kept at a minimum of 3 ^oC above the dew point to prevent condensation and blooming on the surface.

Surface Preparations

1. The surface should be prepared using grinding or light vacuum-contained shot-blasting. Improper surface preparation may lead to loss of adhesion and failure of oxicrete coating.
2. The tensile strength of a new concrete surface should be 1.5 MPa or more and free from any laitance, surface sealer, or curing membrane.
3. Old concrete surfaces must be free from loose debris, dirt, oil, and grease deposits. Visual inspection should ensure the surface is properly cleaned and sound.

Placement Procedure 

1. Apply oxicrete with a nominal thickness of 1 mm as a scratch coat and cure it for a maximum of 48 hours at a temperature of around 20 ^oC. 
2. If the maximum curing time is exceeded, the coat should be abraded, and another coat should be applied.
3. Next, pour the oxicrete mix on the area and use a notched trowel to achieve the required coverage rate. 
4. The surface should be protected from dampness and condensation, and it is recommended to water the area for a minimum of four days.

Curing

The curing time of oxicrete varies based on the purpose of applications and ambient temperature. For instance, it requires seven days for a surface to become fully chemical resistant and be used for heavy-duty traffic. 

However, it needs 12 hours for pedestrians, 24 hours for light-wheeled traffic, and 48 hours for medium-wheeled traffic. 

Applications

1. Oxicrete can be used for all shapes.
2. It can be employed indoors and outdoors of residential and commercial buildings.
3. Oxicrete is applied to stain concrete.
4. It is a good option to renew old surfaces.

Advantages

1. Oxicrete is tough and has high resistance to damage.
2. It can be applied easily.
3. Oxicrete surfaces can be cleaned easily.
4. The color of oxicrete surfaces does not fade over time.
5. It has several tones.

FAQs

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