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Use Epocote F100W for: Priming new concrete weeks ahead of schedule, blocking tile efflorescence, and sealing concrete surfaces against chemical attack.
Epocote F100W: A Technical Overview
Epocote F100W is a two-component, water-based epoxy system engineered for Australian trade professionals who require performance and efficiency. Formulated with a 40% solids content, it penetrates and seals substrates, curing to form a tough, well-bonded film. Its defining feature is its ability to be applied to damp or 'green' concrete (up to 10% moisture content), a critical advantage that significantly reduces the typical 28-day waiting period for concrete cure. This allows waterproofing and subsequent trades to commence far earlier in the project timeline. The formulation balances a generous 60-minute pot life, minimising material waste, with a rapid 2-4 hour tack-free time, enabling same-day recoating and maximising on-site labour efficiency.
Comparative Performance Overview
| Metric | Epocote F100W Clear | Standard Acrylic Primer | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Substrate Moisture Tolerance | Up to 10% | < 5% | Allows application on green concrete 14 days earlier than typical, accelerating project schedules significantly. |
| Pot Life vs. Cure Speed | 60 min pot life / 2-4 hr tack-free | N/A (single component) / 1-2 hr tack-free | The epoxy chemistry provides superior adhesion and sealing, while the optimised pot life minimises waste compared to other epoxies. |
| Efflorescence Blocking | High Resistance | Low to Moderate Resistance | Forms a dense, chemically resistant barrier that effectively stops salt migration, preventing costly aesthetic failures on tiles and facades. |
| Recoat Window | Max. 24 hours @ 20°C | Typically 2-4 hours | Provides a practical and flexible window for applying subsequent coats or membrane systems, accommodating site logistics. |
System Integration & Interoperability Analysis
Epocote F100W functions as a critical link between the substrate and the waterproofing system. Its primary role is to enhance the performance and reliability of the entire building envelope. When used as a primer for Bituthene® LM, Aquagard™ polyurethane, and Newflex™ membranes, it mitigates substrate-related risks. Its ability to handle moisture in green concrete prevents delamination of the membrane, which can occur if residual moisture vapour is trapped. As a sealer, its chemical interoperability with tile adhesives and grouts is excellent, ensuring it does not impede the bond of subsequent layers while preventing chemical reactions like efflorescence from compromising the final finish.
Failure Mode & Effects Analysis (FMEA)
This product is engineered to prevent common points of failure in waterproofing and tiling systems.
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Failure Mode: Membrane delamination from a new concrete slab.
- Cause: High residual moisture and alkalinity in concrete that has not fully cured.
- Preventative Spec (Epocote F100W): Adhesion to concrete with up to 10% moisture content neutralises the risk, creating a stable, tenacious bond for the membrane.
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Failure Mode: White staining (efflorescence) on tile grout lines or stone surfaces.
- Cause: Soluble salts within the screed or adhesive migrating to the surface with water.
- Preventative Spec (Epocote F100W): The product's 40% solids content cures to a dense, low-permeability film, creating an impermeable barrier that physically blocks salt and water migration.
Core Features & Specifications
- Water-Based Epoxy Chemistry: Delivers superior adhesion and chemical resistance with very low VOCs and low odour for minimal site disruption.
- Green Concrete Application: Can be applied to concrete with a moisture content up to 10%, drastically shortening project timelines.
- Optimised Cure Profile: A 60-minute pot life at 25°C allows for careful, waste-free application, while a 2-4 hour tack-free time permits rapid progress.
- High Coverage Rate: Achieves approximately 4m² per litre (0.25 kg/m²), offering excellent economy for large areas.
- Simple Mix Ratio: A 1:1 mix ratio by weight or volume ensures foolproof mixing on site, eliminating complex calculations.
The Epocote F100W Advantage
- Accelerate Project Revenue: Start waterproofing days or weeks earlier, leading to faster project completion and handover.
- Eliminate Costly Callbacks: Proactively prevent efflorescence and leachate staining, protecting your reputation and avoiding remedial work.
- Increase On-Site Efficiency: Minimise material waste with a long pot-life and reduce labour costs with a fast cure that allows for same-day system application.
- Enhance System Reliability: Ensure a tenacious, high-performance bond for waterproofing membranes, reducing the risk of system failure.
- Improve Workplace Health & Safety: The low odour, very low VOC formulation is safer for applicators and suitable for internal or poorly ventilated areas.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For the New Build Waterproofer: On a new commercial podium deck, Epocote F100W can be applied 14 days after the concrete pour. Its application prevents a multi-week delay, allowing the subsequent liquid membrane to be applied within 24 hours. This gets the area watertight faster, enabling other trades to work below and accelerating the entire construction program.
For the Remedial Tiler: When retiling a shower in a luxury apartment, applying Epocote F100W to the new screed before tiling creates an ironclad barrier. It prevents calcium leachate from the cementitious bed bleeding through and staining expensive porous natural stone or dark grout, guaranteeing a perfect finish and avoiding client disputes.
Certifications & Regulatory Compliance
This product is designed for use in systems that comply with Australian Standards for waterproofing. Detailing for external and internal wet areas should be performed in accordance with AS 4654.2 and AS 3740, respectively. Concrete substrates should be a minimum of 25 MPa strength grade as per AS 3600.
Storage & Shelf Life Considerations
Store in original, unopened containers in a cool, dry, and frost-free environment. Maintain a shelf life of 12 months from the date of manufacture under these conditions, ensuring consistent performance for scheduled projects.
Frequently Asked Questions About Epocote™ F100W Clear
Q: Can Epocote™ F100W Clear be applied to freshly poured concrete?
A: Yes, it can be applied to damp or green concrete with a maximum moisture content of 10%. Ensure the concrete has reached a minimum strength grade of 25 MPa and is moist-cured as per AS 3600.
Q: How long does Epocote™ F100W Clear take to cure?
A: The tack-free time is typically 2-4 hours at 25°C and 60% relative humidity. Curing time can vary based on temperature and humidity conditions.
Q: Is dilution necessary for all applications?
A: Dilution with 10% clean water is recommended for the first coat on porous concrete substrates to minimise pinholes. The second coat should be applied undiluted.
Q: What is the best way to clean up after using Epocote™ F100W Clear?
A: Use water to clean uncured product from brushes and rollers. Xylene may assist in removing gelled material. Discard used brushes and rollers where possible.
Q: What safety precautions should I take when using this product?
A: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves and protective goggles. Ensure adequate ventilation during application. Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for comprehensive safety information.
Use Epocote™ F100W Clear for:
- Priming damp or green concrete before applying waterproofing membranes.
- Sealing surfaces to prevent efflorescence and calcium leachate staining.
- Preparing concrete surfaces for subsequent coatings.
- Enhancing adhesion of polyurethane and water-based membranes.
Why Use Epocote™ F100W Clear:
- Reduces project delays by allowing application on damp concrete.
- Minimises waste with its extended pot life.
- Ensures durable and chemically resistant surfaces.
- Improves aesthetic outcomes by preventing staining.
- Provides a low VOC, user-friendly application experience.
How to apply Epocote™ F100W Clear:
- Ensure the substrate is clean, dry, and free from contaminants.
- Mix Part A and Part B for 3 minutes using a slow-speed mixer. Allow to stand for 5 minutes, then remix.
- For porous concrete, apply a first coat diluted with 10% clean water using a brush or roller.
- Apply a second, undiluted coat within 24 hours.
- Allow the primer/sealer to cure according to the specified tack-free time.
Epocote™ F100W Clear limitations:
- Do not apply when relative humidity exceeds 80%.
- Do not apply outside the temperature range of 10°C to 35°C.
- Maximum re-coat time is 24 hours at 20°C.
Safety precautions when using Epocote™ F100W Clear:
- Personal Protective Equipment: Gloves, protective goggles, and appropriate clothing.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation during application.
- Handling: Follow MSDS guidelines for safe handling practices.
Epocote™ F100W Clear can be used on the following substrates:
- Concrete (including damp or green concrete) with a minimum strength grade of 25 MPa.
- Tiles and step risers (to prevent efflorescence).
- Porous concrete surfaces requiring priming.
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