ARDEX Primer E - Multifunctional universal primer

Description

ARDEX PRIMER E is a solvent-free multifunctional b1component epoxy resin for use as a primer for ARDEX epoxy and polyurethane paints.

Sandblasted to saturation, it serves as a primer for ARDEX cementitious products. Where highly porous surfaces exist, more than one coat of ARDEX PRIMER E may be necessary to ensure proper sealing and sufficient bonding efficiency.

Substrate preparation

The substrate must be hard, solid and free of dust or other loose particles such as paint, lime, mortar, plaster, adhesive residues, etc., which may impair adhesion to the substrate.

Before mechanical preparation, varnish, wax, grease, oil and similar contaminants must be removed. Contaminated concrete surfaces must be treated mechanically, either by sanding, shot blasting or sandblasting, followed by vacuuming.

Repairs to cracks, holes, etc. should be carried out prior to the application of ARDEX PRIMER E using ARDEX products from the repair range.

Any joints or cracks in the concrete substrate where differential movement is expected, e.g. expansion joints, must be brought up to the finished surface and properly sealed.

Mixing

The individual components of ARDEX PRIMER E must be stirred before mixing.

The hardening agent (component B) is added to the resin (component A) and stirred with a spiral rod at slow speed to a uniform consistency. It is very important that the resin components are well mixed (this is achieved by stirring for at least 3 minutes). Some of the mixture can be reintroduced into the hardener container to collect any residue that may remain in the container. The mixture that has passed through the hardener container is reintroduced into the mixing container and stirred for a further 30 seconds.

This mixing process ensures the consistency of the product and that any resin remaining in any of the containers reacts, facilitating subsequent waste management.

Once mixed ARDEX PRIMER E will generate a large amount of heat IF left in the mixing container causing an abrupt decrease in pot-life.

Application

Once mixed ARDEX PRIMER E should be spread onto the floor without delay using a short/medium nap brush or roller. 

One or more coats of ARDEX PRIMER E may be necessary to ensure a uniform primer, free of pores or dry areas and to compensate for differences in absorption from different areas of the substrate.

The second coat should be applied as soon as the first coat is sufficiently cured. This curing time varies according to the ambient and surface temperature (minimum 6 hours). Ventilation must be provided for the primed area.

If the products to be applied over ARDEX PRIMER E require a higher mechanical bond, the still wet ARDEX PRIMER E layer is sanded to saturation with approx. 0.6 mm quartz aggregate. The next day the sanded surface is swept and vacuumed to remove unbonded aggregate.

Limitations

These products may not be applied at temperatures below 1 O°C or above 30°C or when the ambient humidity exceeds 85%. 

If the pot-life is exceeded, the mixed product loses its characteristics and must be discarded.

Cleaning of tools

ARDEX PRIMER E can be cleaned from tools and equipment immediately after use using a solvent such as ARDEX RTC cleaning solvent. If the product hardens, it can only be removed by mechanical means.

Residues/Spills

Spillage of any of the products must be collected immediately with sand, vermiculite or other inert material and placed in a suitable container for disposal.

Waste management of these spills and empty containers should be carried out in accordance with local legislation.

For further information see safety data sheet.

Storage

The shelf life of ARDEX PRIMER E is 12 months in sealed original containers. Storage should take place in a dry place between +5°C and +30°C. Protection from frost, direct sunlight and heat sources is required.

Precautions

ARDEX PRIMER E must not come into contact with eyes or skin and must not be ingested.

The hardener contains isophoron diamine and benzyl alcohol and the epoxy resin containing b1sphenol A-epichlorohydrin (PM< 700), may irritate eyes and skin and may cause contact sensitisation. They are considered harmful in contact with the feet, eyes or if swallowed.

During mixing or application the following precautions should be observed: ensure adequate ventilation and avoid contact of the material with eyes, nostrils, mouth or skin. Avoid contact with hands, protecting them with gloves and protective cream if necessary. In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice. In case of contact with skin, wash immediately with soap and water (do not use solvents). Avoid prolonged skin contact, especially those with allergic reactions to epoxy materials. Always wear gloves and eye protection, if necessary. Take care of personal hygiene after work, or during breaks in work, by always washing hands. Take care when removing gloves not to contaminate the inside of the gloves.

When working in confined areas wear suitable respiratory equipment.

In case of accidental ingestion of product, seek immediate medical attention, do not induce vomiting.

In case of accident, seek medical advice. For further information see safety data sheet.

Technical data

(based on tests carried out in our laboratory according to current regulations)

• Appearance: Viscous liquid
• Density: Approx. 1.05 g/cm3
• Pot-life (25ºC): Approx. 40 min.
• Time between coats: Min. 8 hours; Max: 24 hours
• Light traffic: 48 hours
• Total cure: 7 days
• Application: Rubber lip, medium/short pile roller.
• Consumption: 200-300 gr/ m2 (per coat)
• Mixing ratio: 2 A : 1 B
• Packaging: Packs of 7/20 Kg A+B