Acronal® PS 715 I

Carbonation is a chemical process where atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) reacts with calcium hydroxide in concrete, forming calcium carbonate and lowering the concrete's pH from highly alkaline (12-13) to near-neutral levels (8-9). This pH reduction is critical because the high alkalinity of concrete normally protects embedded steel reinforcement from corrosion by maintaining a passive oxide layer on the steel surface. When carbonation reaches the steel depth, this protective layer breaks down, allowing corrosion to initiate. Corroding steel expands, creating internal stresses that cause concrete spalling, cracking, and structural deterioration. Anti-carbonation coatings like those formulated with Acronal® PS 715 I create a protective barrier that significantly reduces CO₂ penetration rates, preserving the concrete's alkalinity and extending the service life of reinforced concrete structures by decades. This is particularly critical for parking structures, bridges, industrial facilities, and urban buildings exposed to high atmospheric CO₂ levels.

Acronal® PS 715 I contains reactive crosslinking functionalities that create chemical bonds between polymer chains after film formation. This crosslinking process significantly enhances several critical properties: Film Density increases as the molecular network tightens, creating a more effective barrier against water, CO₂, and aggressive substances; Mechanical Strength improves with better tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and durability under physical stress; Chemical Resistance enhances protection against acids, alkalis, salts, and solvents common in industrial and coastal environments; Crack-Bridging Capability is maintained despite the denser film structure, as the crosslinked network provides elasticity; and Long-Term Stability improves with greater resistance to UV degradation, weathering, and aging. The crosslinking occurs at ambient temperature over days to weeks, progressively improving performance. This makes PS 715 I superior to non-crosslinking acrylics for demanding facade applications where long-term protection is essential.

Yes, Acronal® PS 715 I is specifically formulated for versatility across multiple applications. For Anti-Carbonation Facade Coatings, it serves as the primary binder for protective coatings on concrete facades, providing excellent CO₂ barrier properties, dirt pickup resistance, and weathering durability with typical formulations including 15-25% PS 715 I on total weight. For Mastic Waterproofing Membranes, it functions as the binder for thick, elastomeric waterproofing systems applied to balconies, terraces, and wet areas, with formulations typically using 20-30% polymer for enhanced flexibility and water resistance. For Primers, it can be used in diluted formulations (10-15%) to seal porous substrates and improve adhesion of subsequent coatings. The product's crosslinking chemistry, crack-bridging capability, and excellent adhesion make it suitable for all these applications. However, formulation adjustments are necessary for each use case regarding polymer dosage, filler selection, rheology modification, and additive packages. VUBS Corporation provides application-specific technical support and starting formulations for each use case.

Successful formulations with Acronal® PS 715 I require careful additive selection. Film-Forming Agents such as Texanol or similar glycol ethers at 0.8-1.2% by total weight lower the MFFT for cold-weather application and improve film coalescence. Defoamers including mineral oil-based or silicone-based products at 0.2-0.5% are essential to eliminate air voids and surface defects that compromise barrier properties. Thickeners like associative thickeners (HEUR) or alkali-swellable emulsions (ASE) at 0.5-2% control rheology for proper application and sag resistance on vertical surfaces. Preservatives such as broad-spectrum biocides at 0.1-0.3% protect against microbial degradation during storage. Dispersants at 0.3-0.8% ensure uniform pigment and filler distribution. Wetting Agents at 0.1-0.3% improve substrate wetting and adhesion. For pigmented facade coatings, titanium dioxide (10-20% for white coatings) and colored pigments should be pre-dispersed. Fillers including calcium carbonate, talc, or quartz (20-40%) adjust viscosity and cost. All dosages are on total formulation weight. VUBS Corporation can provide detailed starting formulations and technical guidance for optimization.

Acronal® PS 715 I excels in aggressive environments due to its robust chemistry. In Coastal Environments with salt spray, high humidity, and UV exposure, the crosslinked film structure provides excellent moisture resistance, preventing salt ingress that causes efflorescence and corrosion. The good dirt pickup resistance maintains aesthetic appearance despite marine atmosphere contamination. The styrene-acrylic backbone delivers superior UV stability compared to pure acrylics, preventing chalking and color fading. In Industrial Environments with airborne pollutants, acidic gases (SO₂, NOₓ), and chemical exposure, the enhanced chemical resistance from crosslinking protects against acid attack and industrial contamination. The anti-carbonation properties are especially valuable in high-CO₂ industrial areas. The film maintains integrity despite temperature cycling and mechanical stress from industrial operations. Real-world performance data from BASF shows PS 715 I-based coatings maintaining protective properties for 10-15+ years in these demanding conditions, significantly outperforming conventional coatings. Regular maintenance washing can extend service life even further. This makes PS 715 I ideal for refineries, chemical plants, power stations, port facilities, offshore platforms, and coastal commercial buildings where durability and long-term protection are critical.