IntraFilm is a high-quality reactive colloidal silica densifier and finishing aid designed to enhance the durability and workability of freshly placed concrete. This guide will help you understand how to properly apply IntraFilm to achieve the best results for your concrete projects.
Preparation
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Clean, hand-pump tank-type sprayer with a low-pressure tip
- Protective gear (gloves, goggles)
- Soap and warm water for cleaning
Surface Preparation:
- Ensure that the concrete surface is freshly placed and has started to set but is still in a pliable state.
- Clear the area of any debris or foreign materials.
Application Steps
Step 1: Initial Spraying
- IntraFilm is designed for use during the floating and troweling stages of concrete placement, to increase workability and prolong the surface finishing window.
- Fill the sprayer with IntraFilm.
- Lightly mist the entire surface with IntraFilm at a coverage rate of 500 to 1000 square feet per gallon.
- Ensure even distribution; avoid ponding or puddling on the surface.
Step 2: Finishing
- To provide a smoother finishing process, immediately follow up the spraying with standard concrete finishing techniques, including screeding, floating, and troweling.
- Be cautious with power trowels to prevent over-finishing.
Post-Application
- Clean-up:
- Rinse all tools and sprayers with soap and warm water immediately after use.
- Ensure no residual IntraFilm remains in the spray equipment to avoid clogging.
Tips for Best Results
- Weather Conditions: Apply IntraFilm in temperatures between 40°F and 80°F. Avoid windy conditions to reduce rapid evaporation.
- Avoid Over-application: Excessive use can cause discoloration or hazing on the concrete surface.
- Consider Cure Methods: IntraFilm does not replace standard curing procedures. Continue to cure the concrete as per standard practices to ensure strength and durability.
- Additional Applications: In projects requiring dry shake hardeners, IntraFilm helps in more even distribution and adherence of the hardeners.
Safety Precautions
- Protective Equipment: Always wear gloves and goggles to protect against accidental splashes.
- Storage: Store the product between 40°F and 80°F in a dry place. Keep the container tightly closed to prevent contamination.
- Disposal: Dispose of any unused product and containers in accordance with local regulations.
Application Uses
IntraFilm is versatile and fits a wide range of concrete projects:
- Warehouse floors
- Industrial flatwork
- Parking structures
- Institutional and commercial buildings
- Stadiums and arenas
- Colored concrete projects
IntraFilm significantly enhances the durability and workability of concrete surfaces, ensuring a superior finish even in challenging conditions. By following this detailed application guide, you can achieve optimal performance and extend the life of your concrete projects. For more information or specific questions, contact SpecChem.
FAQ for IntraFilm and Concrete Finishing Aids
What is IntraFilm?
IntraFilm is a reactive colloidal silica densifier and finishing aid that enhances freshly placed concrete. It helps in faster and easier finishing and prolongs workability, especially in adverse conditions like high temperatures, high wind, or low humidity.
What are concrete finishing aids?
Concrete finishing aids are products used during the floating and troweling stages of concrete placement. They enhance the workability and durability of the concrete surface, making the finishing process smoother and the final product more robust and visually appealing.
How does IntraFilm work?
IntraFilm contains reactive colloidal silica that reacts during hydration to produce concrete slabs with higher density, improved durability, and reduced maintenance requirements. It lubricates the concrete surface, thus reducing wear on trowels and equipment, and facilitates the application of dry shake hardeners.
What are the benefits of using IntraFilm?
- Prolongs workability of concrete surfaces in challenging conditions.
- Facilitates the application of dry shake hardeners.
- Increases the workability of concrete without altering the water/cement ratio.
- Lubricates concrete surfaces, reducing trowel and equipment wear.
- Enhances impact and abrasion resistance.
- Helps retain moisture in the slab for curing, reducing curling and shrinkage.
- Minimizes checking, crazing, and scaling.
- Contains low VOC content (<50 g/L) and reduces potential for alkali silica reaction (ASR).
How should IntraFilm be applied?
- Use a clean, hand-pump tank-type sprayer with a low-pressure tip.
- Lightly mist IntraFilm over the entire surface to be treated.
- Ensure to immediately follow up with screeding, floating, troweling, or other finishing procedures.
- Reapply IntraFilm to any localized areas where the concrete has begun to dry prematurely.
What is the coverage rate of IntraFilm?
- As a finishing aid: 500 to 1000 square feet per gallon.
- As a concrete densifier: 250 to 500 square feet per gallon.
Are there any precautions to take while using IntraFilm?
- Do not store below 40°F or above 80°F.
- Do not allow to pond or puddle on the surface.
- Over-application can cause concrete hazing or cloudiness.
- IntraFilm does not replace curing procedures.
- Keep from freezing and do not cut or weld the container.
How do I clean tools and spills after using IntraFilm?
Clean tools and any spills with soap and warm water before the material dries.
What types of projects can benefit from using IntraFilm?
- Warehouse and industrial flatwork
- Interior and exterior parking structures
- Institutional office buildings
- Stadiums and arenas
- Colored concrete projects
IntraFilm is also effective with low bleed micro-silica concrete and helps in the application of dry shake hardeners .
Is IntraFilm compliant with any standards?
Yes, IntraFilm is VOC compliant, complies with South Coast Air Quality Management District standards, and is USDA accepted.
By understanding the functionality and application process of IntraFilm, users can ensure optimal performance and durability of their concrete projects. If you have further questions or need specific instructions, please contact SpecChem.
