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ARMADILLO D (Dustproof): A Technical Overview
ARMADILLO D (Dustproof) is a silicate-based, waterborne concrete densifier that chemically bonds with calcium hydroxide to form calcium silicate hydrate (CSH), strengthening the surface matrix. This reduces porosity, enhances abrasion resistance, and limits moisture, oil, and chemical ingress. Ideal for internal or external slabs — from warehouses to garages — it can be used on freshly poured or aged concrete and supports subsequent finishes such as tiles or coatings.
5 m²/L
Coverage Rate on Trowelled Concrete
Core Features & Specifications
- Silicate-based formulation reacts with concrete to form durable CSH compounds
- Provides permanent densification and dustproofing benefits
- Reduces surface porosity and liquid ingress from oils and mild chemicals
- Complies with Green Star – Office Design V3 IEQ-13 standards
- Dries tack-free in 2–4 hours; light foot traffic after 4–6 hours
- Shelf life of 2 years in sealed, original packaging
- Compatible with bond breakers and after-trade applications
The ARMADILLO D (Dustproof) Advantage
- Long-lasting protection through chemical densification — becomes part of the slab
- Safe and easy to apply using low-pressure sprayer or mechanical scrubber
- Compatible with freshly poured, cured, or rain-damaged concrete
- Visibly enhances slab finish and reduces long-term maintenance costs
- Non-toxic and water washable — no harsh solvent fumes or handling risks
Best Practices: Do's & Don'ts
Do
- Apply with a broom or low-pressure sprayer at 5 m²/L
- Maintain surface saturation for 30+ minutes during application
- Flush surface if slippery or residue forms — especially on indoor slabs
- Allow 4 weeks cure before painting or floor coverings
Don't
- Don’t apply over wet surfaces — allow to dry at least 24 hours
- Don’t leave residue to dry — remove with water or squeegee
- Don’t use as a rising damp barrier — it is not a moisture-proofing product
- Avoid contact with metals, glass, or painted surfaces — rinse immediately
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Commercial Builders (Specifier/Engineer): High-Performance Floor Finishing
The Engineering Challenge
Durability and resistance to abrasion and chemical attack are critical in warehouse or logistics hubs. Traditional coatings peel or delaminate under forklifts or heavy trolleys.
The System-Based Solution with ARMADILLO D
Applied during or after pour, ARMADILLO D chemically densifies the slab, reducing porosity and tyre scuffing while improving abrasion resistance — all without compromising coating compatibility.
Best Practice Note
Allow full curing (min. 28 days) before overlaying with floor coverings. Always flush or squeegee residues off smooth finishes.
For Flooring Contractors (On-Site Applicator): Dust Control for Aged Slabs
The Engineering Challenge
Old concrete slabs generate excessive dust, making it hard for adhesives or finishes to bond effectively — especially in retrofit jobs or basements.
The System-Based Solution with ARMADILLO D
After surface prep, ARMADILLO D can be applied via watering can and broom, or mechanical scrubber, to densify and seal the slab, readying it for tiles, carpet, or epoxy systems.
Best Practice Note
Ensure surface is fully dry and free of any coatings. Mechanical scrubbing improves penetration and long-term performance.
Performance Benchmark: ARMADILLO D (Dustproof) vs. Standard Alternatives
| Metric | ARMADILLO D | Standard Sealer | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Resistance | High Improved resilience | Moderate | Better performance in oily or industrial settings |
| Surface Hardness | CSH Densified Permanent | Film-forming only | Becomes part of concrete — no peeling |
| After-Trade Compatibility | High Fully compatible | Limited | Supports tiling, line marking, adhesives |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does ARMADILLO D (Dustproof) improve concrete durability?
ARMADILLO D reacts with calcium hydroxide in concrete to form calcium silicate hydrate (CSH), the same structure responsible for strength in cured cement paste. This reaction densifies the slab, increasing hardness, reducing porosity, and limiting damage from oils, chemicals, and carbonation.
Can ARMADILLO D be used on existing, aged concrete floors?
Yes, ARMADILLO D is ideal for restoring dusty or porous existing slabs. The surface must be clean and dry before application. For best results on large areas, use a mechanical scrubber to assist with penetration. Excess material should be squeegeed off after 30–60 minutes.
Is ARMADILLO D compatible with floor finishes like tile, paint, or adhesives?
Yes, ARMADILLO D is designed to be compatible with after-trade procedures including tiles, adhesives, paint, and line marking. Ensure all residue is removed and the slab is properly cured (typically 28 days) before applying floor coverings.
How long does ARMADILLO D take to dry before it's trafficable?
ARMADILLO D typically dries tack-free in 2–4 hours at 21°C and 50% RH. Light foot traffic is allowed after 4–6 hours, while wheel traffic is safe after 24 hours. Always ensure proper flushing of residue to avoid surface contamination.
Can ARMADILLO D be used during a concrete pour as a cure and densifier?
Yes. ARMADILLO D can be applied during the concrete pour phase, acting as a combined curing and densifying agent. It should be applied as soon as the surface is firm enough to walk on and before hairline cracking occurs. Compatibility with curing agents and third-party finishes should be tested case-by-case.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Dustproofing of warehouse and commercial floors | Reduces airborne dust, improving air quality and surface cleanliness | Commercial Builders, Flooring Contractors |
| Reinstatement of rain-damaged or soft slab surfaces | Chemically strengthens weak mortar zones, restoring surface hardness | Concrete Finishers, Remedial Specialists |
| Treatment of old, carbonated, or porous concrete | Improves resistance to chemical and moisture ingress while reducing porosity | Asset Maintenance, Facility Managers |
| Pre-floor covering preparation for adhesives or tiles | Provides a densified, clean base with minimal moisture uptake | Tilers, Flooring Installers |
| Use as a curing/densifying treatment during concrete pour | Improves early strength gain and enables after-trade compatibility | Concreters, Specifiers |
Applying ARMADILLO D (Dustproof): Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Surface Preparation
Ensure the concrete surface is clean, dry, and free of curing compounds, sealers, coatings, or contaminants. On new concrete, delay application until the surface is walkable and free from plastic shrinkage concerns. For existing slabs, mechanical scrubbing improves absorption.
New Concrete
Prepare the surface with appropriate finishing tools. Use an evaporation retarder if required. Apply when slab is walkable but prior to hairline cracking.
Existing Concrete
Remove dust, oil, adhesives, or paint residues. Ensure slab is porous and dry. Mechanical scrubbing is recommended for uniform treatment.
Timing: Wait at least 24 hours after washdown or curing compound removal before application.Pro Tip: Do not apply over wet or non-absorbent surfaces — it may prevent penetration. -
Application Method
Apply ARMADILLO D evenly across the surface using a broom or low-pressure sprayer at 5 m²/L. Maintain surface saturation for a minimum of 30 minutes. Use a soft-bristled broom to work the product into the substrate.
Low-Pressure Spray
Use a sprayer delivering 250–500 kPa at 10–20 L/min. Cover the area uniformly and agitate the surface during soaking time.
Mechanical Scrubbing
For existing slabs, apply using watering can, then scrub in with bristle brush or mechanical floor scrubber for deep penetration.
Timing: Maintain saturation for 30–60 minutes depending on slab porosity.Pro Tip: On highly porous slabs, multiple light applications may improve consistency and coverage. -
Remove Excess Material
Once ARMADILLO D begins to thicken or gel (no more than 60 minutes after application), remove excess using a squeegee or vacuum. On interior smooth slabs, flush with clean water and dry with squeegee. Broom finishes do not require rinsing but must not retain puddled liquid.
Timing: Residue removal should occur immediately once surface starts to gel.Pro Tip: Mist with water if surface becomes slippery, then fully rinse to eliminate alkali build-up. -
Optional Reapplication & Final Finish
A second coat may be applied after initial curing to improve wear and chemical resistance. For slabs treated during pour, ensure curing agent (if used) is removed before reapplication. Apply using same coverage method and remove all excess material.
Timing: Wait until surface is completely dry — minimum 24 hours — before reapplying.Pro Tip: For optimal surface finish, avoid heavy equipment traffic for at least 24 hours post-application.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not designed to act as a rising damp barrier. For moisture barriers, use appropriate waterproofing membranes.
Do not apply over surfaces that are wet, frozen, or poorly cured. Proper drying and porosity are essential for penetration.
Residue left unremoved may harden and require grinding to eliminate. Always flush or squeegee thoroughly.
Not compliant with AS 3799 curing standard. Use Surface Cure R if certified curing is required.
Avoid contact with metals, glass, paint, or wood. Rinse immediately if overspray occurs to prevent damage or staining.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing during application. Avoid skin and eye contact. PPE must be worn during mixing and application phases.
Ventilation Requirements
Use in well-ventilated areas. If applying indoors, ensure airflow or use exhaust systems to prevent vapour buildup, especially when misting water during cleanup.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Not flammable or classified as hazardous. Do not store near Class 4.3 (dangerous when wet), Class 5 (oxidisers), or foodstuffs. Avoid mixing with acids — may cause gelling or white precipitates.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Immediately flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention.
Skin:
Remove contaminated clothing. Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air. If irritation persists, seek medical advice.
Swallowed:
DO NOT induce vomiting. Rinse mouth with water. Seek immediate medical attention.
Seek medical attention immediately in all cases of serious exposure.
ARMADILLO D (Dustproof) Application Guide
New Concrete
Surface Preparation
Ensure the surface has been properly finished using a power screed or broom, and address plastic shrinkage using an approved evaporation retarder (e.g., A-Film). Concrete should be firm enough to walk on before application. Avoid applying over wet surfaces.
Primer Requirements
No primer typically required
ARMADILLO D can be applied directly to new concrete without a primer. If used with Surface Cure R, ensure curing compound is fully removed prior to application.
N/AExisting Concrete
Surface Preparation
Clean thoroughly to remove coatings, oils, dust, and contaminants. Surface must be dry and absorbent. Mechanical scrubbing is recommended for deep penetration.
No primer required
ARMADILLO D is designed to penetrate bare concrete directly. No primers should be used before application.
N/ASteel Trowelled Concrete
Surface Preparation
Ensure surface is clean, dry, and free of curing agents or polish. Apply at 5 m²/L, keeping surface saturated for 30 minutes. Squeegee off excess.
No primer required
Priming is not required as ARMADILLO D chemically reacts with surface compounds during application.
N/ABroom-Finished Exterior Concrete
Surface Preparation
Sweep away loose debris and ensure no water pooling. No rinsing is needed, but excess liquid should be broomed or squeegeed off after application.
No primer required
Surface porosity ensures adequate absorption. Avoid over-application on non-absorbent zones.
N/A
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