The Portland Cement Association, or PCA, is the authority of choice when it comes to concrete. They thoroughly research, educate, regulate, and catalog everything that has to do with concrete – from its beginnings as cement to its disintegration at the end of its life span. So, when the PCA says there’s no other contaminant that causes more corrosion to metals in concrete than chloride ions, you can be certain of it.
Chloride Risks to Concrete
Chlorides are the ionic form of chlorine. Chlorine is a natural element found within the Earth. Extremely reactive, it combines easily with other substances, as in salts. This characteristic of breaking apart other molecules to make new molecules is one reason why it’s a primary component of bleach. Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant, and is therefore commonly used to keep swimming pools clean of germs and living organisms.
The reactive nature of chlorine is especially damaging to concrete. And if it reaches the steel rebar inside concrete, chlorides quickly begin to corrode the metal. This reduces the structural integrity of the concrete, eventually leading to uneven surfaces, cracks, or even shifts in the slab that make it unsafe. The chlorine content in swimming pools and spas is intentionally kept within safety levels, but storage areas for chlorinated liquids and chemicals are much more susceptible to chloride risks. They often see spills of such liquids, as do pump rooms. In fact, any facility that is frequently disinfected with chlorides runs the risk of exposing unprotected concrete floors to chloride corrosion.
Meeting the Risk of Chlorides
Nevada Custom Coatings offers the best way to protect your concrete floor from chlorides: epoxy coatings. These coatings are seamlessly installed over your concrete floor, creating a barrier between your concrete and any liquid, chlorinated or not. Even corrosive chemicals like nitric and sulfuric acids can’t make it through the right type of epoxy coatings! Additional options like coved flooring and no-slip finishes increase the safety and protection of your floor. You can even add color flakes, micas, or patterns so that your epoxy coating not only protects your concrete floor but looks fabulous doing it!
Maybe you’re looking to improve the safety in your business work area. Perhaps you’d like more grip around your swimming pool, or the floor surrounding your spa. Whatever the case, if chlorides or other chemical spills are a likely issue, epoxy coatings are the best way to ensure your concrete floor remains stable and intact for its entire life.
At Nevada Custom Coatings, we are happy to give you further information and even individualized recommendations for your concrete floor. Please give us a call or schedule a free consultation using our online form. We’re glad to show you the benefits of installing epoxy coatings on your concrete floor!
