Gripset E-60 Epoxy Primer

For damp or green concrete, masonry, and mineral substrates where residual moisture exceeds maximum allowable limits, Gripset E-60 Epoxy Primer serves as a water-based epoxy vapour barrier, moisture barrier, and high-adhesion primer. It prevents moisture penetration, rising damp, and efflorescence prior to the application of membranes, adhesives, and floor finishes.

What it does

E-60 Epoxy Primer is a two-component water-based epoxy compound that functions as both a primer and protective barrier. When applied to mineral surfaces, it cures to restrict water vapour transmission and withstands hydrostatic water pressure from the negative side. It provides a compatible bonding surface for subsequent coatings, tile adhesives, and cementitious screeds, and is certified under AS 4020 for contact with potable water storage tanks.

Numbers that matter

• 2.5 bar hydrostatic resistance: Cured barrier withstands up to 25 metres of negative hydrostatic pressure, preventing rising damp and water penetration.
• 1.3g/m²/24 hours water vapour transmission: Tested under ASTM E96 (2 coats @ 300 microns DFT) to restrict moisture vapour migration through concrete slabs.
• 2-hour pot life: Practical working window at 23°C and 50% RH to mix and apply the two-part compound before it begins to set.
• 4-hour recoat window: Allows fast multi-coat applications on the same day under standard drying conditions.
• 300-micron minimum dry film thickness (DFT): Required total cured thickness in 2 coats (applied at 1 litre per 3m² per coat) to form a complete moisture barrier or hydrostatic seal.

Where to use it

Suitable for internal and external applications on the following substrates:

• Concrete, including green concrete and damp screeds.
• Concrete block and masonry surfaces.
• Screed, render, and glass reinforced concrete.
• Compressed fibre cement sheeting, including James Hardie Scyon Secura external and internal flooring.
• Timber.

Application guidelines

Dilution can be adjusted based on the substrate porosity to ensure optimal penetration during the first coat:

• Porous surfaces: Dilute the first coat 5% with water. Highly porous surfaces or aged concrete should be lightly dampened with a fine water mist before application.
• Non-porous or dense surfaces: Dilute the first coat 10% with water.

For general priming and adhesion enhancement under membranes, apply 1 coat at 1 litre per 10m² (100 microns wet film thickness / 50 microns dry film thickness).

For vapour barrier applications on green concrete, apply 1 coat at 1 litre per 3m² (300 microns wet film thickness / 150 microns dry film thickness).

For hydrostatic moisture barriers, efflorescence prevention, and potable water immersion, apply 2 coats at 1 litre per 3m² per coat (forming a total minimum dry film thickness of 300 microns). Use a wet film gauge to verify coverage during application.

When tiling or applying cementitious floor levellers directly over E-60, apply 2 coats at 1 litre per 3m² per coat. The second coat must be sand-seeded by broadcasting dry sand into the wet film at a rate of 750g/m² to achieve minimum 90% coverage. Vacuum excess sand once dried.

E-60 can also be used to mix high-strength repair mortars by combining 1 part mixed E-60, 1 part Portland cement, and 3 parts fine washed sand. Apply with a spatula or trowel.

Limitations

• Do not apply when surface or ambient temperatures are above 35°C or below 10°C.
• Cure rates are dramatically reduced in temperatures below 10°C or when relative humidity exceeds 80%.
• Do not apply when rain is imminent or on surfaces with standing water.
• When sealing against negative hydrostatic pressure, running water must be treated first with Gripset C-Plug.
• Not to be used as a trafficable coating or as a finished coating subject to permanent UV exposure.
• All overlaid membranes, paints, and finishes must be applied within 72 hours of E-60 drying. After 72 hours, the surface must be lightly sanded with 240-grit sandpaper to promote adhesion, or a further coat of E-60 must be applied.
• For potable water applications, the cured surface must be washed down with clean water and dispelled before filling.