The ecotio2® Anti Carbonation Surface Coating from Photocatalyst Coatings can be applied to concrete surfaces to increase the lifespan of your concrete asset by reducing the progression of concrete carbonation.
What is concrete carbonation?
Carbon dioxide from atmosphere can react with the calcium hydroxide in concrete to form calcium carbonate. This process is called carbonation, which is essentially the reversal of the chemical process of calcination of lime taking place in a cement kiln. Carbonation of concrete is a slow and continuous process progressing from the outer surface inward, but slows down with increasing diffusion depth.
Carbonation has two effects: it increases mechanical strength of concrete, however it also decreases alkalinity, which can lead to corrosion of the internal steel reinforcement.
This unwanted progression can be minimised with the application of ecotio2®.
Concrete Anti-Carbonation
The carbonation depth is approximately proportional to the square root of time. For example, if the carbonation depth is 1mm in a one-year-old concrete, it will be about 3mm after 9 years, 5mm after 25 years and 10mm after 100 years.The affected depth from the concrete surface can be readily shownby the use of phenolphthalein indicator solution.
The phenolphthalein indicator solution is applied to a fresh fracture surface of concrete. If the indicator turns purple, the pH is above 8.6. Where the solution remains colourless, the pH of the concrete is below 8.6, suggesting carbonation. Fully carbonated concrete has a pH of 8.4.
The ecotio2® coating system for concrete is inorganic. It seals the pores of the concrete to prevent the water ingress and the dissolving of carbon dioxide in the pore water.
Specifications:
Product Guide:
Do you want an easier way to meet industry environmental standards and your corporate sustainability targets in your next project?
There is an easier way to meet industry environmental standards and your corporate sustainability targets in future construction projects.
Applying ecotio2® Photocatalyst coatings to concrete results in having a building that’s durable, self-cleaning and makes a contribution towards the reduction of air pollution. Photocatalyst Coatings are added to durable building products, like concrete, for use in a wide range of applications. Including but not limited to:
When used on or in a concrete structure, photocatalyst technology actually protects the surface from fouling materials. Dirt, dust, road grime, oil and air-borne pollutants are actually broken down into oxygen, carbon dioxide, water, sulphate, nitrate and other molecules – all of which are either beneficial to, or have a relatively benign impact on the environment. By harnessing the power of the sun, ecotio2 coated concrete becomes self-cleaning with rain or easy rinsing removing unwanted contamination. This helps to keep your building structure looking newer for longer.
ecotio2® - sealer AG
ecotio2® - sealer E
ecotio2® - premium E
ecotio2® - premium G
ecotio2® - ultra GS- ultimate graffiti protection
ecotio2® - ultra C
For almost three decades, the ECOTONE team has been at the forefront of change in the application of colour to concrete, cladding, and masonry.
ECOTONE specialises in the application of long-lasting colour and functional coatings, designed for the local building and construction industry. We bring Colour For Life in three ways:
1. Colour Matching- we solve colour matching issues in brick, block, mortar and concrete projects to maintain aesthetic appeal.
2. Colour By Design- we achieve stunning bespoke finishes in architectural projects with award-winning outcomes.
3. Functional Coatings- we lead in the application of the next generation of eco-friendly coatings with multi-surface benefits.
In 2021 we became ECOTONE, a truly local company with a promise to Colour For Life.
ECOTONE is more than a new name for our company. It’s an expression of a bold new vision, mission, values, and purpose – all centered on working together with our many industry partners to achieve Stunningly Sustainable interior and exterior surfaces and buildings.
Please note: ECOTONE products are only to be applied by specialised and trained applicators. Get in contact with your local ECOTONE representative for more information.