Description
The Endurable pH Pencil is a reusable tool to determine the pH of concrete prior to application of Endurable sealers, coatings, and dyes. It is important to test the pH of concrete before application of decorative concrete products to confirm the pH is in the suitable of range of 8 and 10. If the concrete falls outside of this range, it is necessary to mitigate the pH issue before proceeding with the use of decorative concrete products, such as sealers, coatings, dyes, etc.
It is important to understand the basic chemistry of concrete and how that determines the proper pH level of concrete before application of sealers, coatings, and dyes. When concrete is poured, the pH is upwards of 13. While the concrete remains wet while it is curing, the calcium hydroxide (or free lime) in the concrete mix is turned into calcium silica hydrate. When this process is completed after 28 days, the pH of the concrete ends up between 8 and 10.
Capable manufacturers of sealers, coatings, and dyes, must formulate the products to perform at a pH between 8 and 10, knowing this range will match cured concrete. There are a few factors that can cause the pH of the concrete to fall outside of the proper range.
ONE FINAL NOTE ABOUT THE pH OF CONCRETE: IF CONCRETE IS ABOVE 10, IT CAN CAUSE PROBLEMS WITH THE APPLICATIONS OF SEALERS, COATINGS, AND DYES, BUT THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE CONCRETE WILL NOT BE COMPROMISED. HOWEVER, IF CONCRETE IS BELOW 7, THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE CONCRETE WILL BE COMPROMISED. IT MAY NOT HAPPEN OVERNIGHT, BUT OVER TIME, THE CONCRETE WILL DISINEGRATE, CAUSING MULTIPLE ISSUES.
Directions:
- Moisten the surface with distilled or ionized water
- Mark concrete with Endurable pH Pencil
- Wait 15 seconds
- Compare with color chart
Notes:
- Pencil mark may be removed with Endurable Surface Cleaner.
- Product shelf life: up to 3 years.
- Store product between 40 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Keep product free from excessive heat, moisture, and freezing.
