Application on to fresh concrete
Placing of Concrete
The concrete is placed and compacted in the normal manner. It is then trowelled or floated.
Application
Thoroughly mix Sika® Rugasol® G with water (Sika® Rugasol® G:water = 1:2 by volume). The solution obtained is stable.
Immediately after the bleed water has disappeared from the concrete and before initial set, spray diluted Sika® Rugasol® G directly on the concrete surface with a low pressure spraying vessel. It is essential that a uniform rate of coverage be achieved.
Note: Diluted Sika® Rugasol® G should never be applied to the formwork.
Removal
After initial cure of the concrete has taken place (up to 24 hours in warm weather) the soft cement laitance on the surface can be washed and brushed away using a hard bristle broom or steel wire brush, or water-jetted away (150–200 bars) to reveal the exposed aggregate. High pressure water-jetting is recommended for large areas (> 50 m²). The process of removing the soft cement laitence to reveal the exposed aggregates must be completed before the surface hardens.
Note: The depth of exposure can vary depending on the cement content of the concrete, ambient temperature, the amount of Sika® Rugasol® G and the time it is left on the concrete surface before removal. However, an etch depth of ~3–5 mm is normal. Preliminary trials are recommended.
Application on to formwork surface
Mixing
Sika® Rugasol® G is supplied ready-to-use for this application and should not be diluted.
Application
Formwork should be clean and free from any form release agent. Sika® Rugasol® G shall be applied with a brush or short-pile roller. A thorough and uniform rate of coverage is required to achieve a uniform and even depth of etch. Sika® Rugasol® G should be protected from direct sunlight after application. It is pertinent that the layer of Sika® Rugasol® G dry completely (tack free) before concreting takes place. While drying, Sika® Rugasol® G shall be protected from water and rain.
Removal
For optimum results, forms or moulds should be removed as soon as possible after the concrete has gained sufficient strength; normally between 24 to 48 hours in warm weather. Wash and brush with a hard bristle broom or steel wire brush, or water-jet (150–200 bars) the surface to reveal the exposed aggregate. Some of the soft cement paste will adhere to the forms when the mould is stripped. This can be removed easily from both the formwork and the concrete, while still soft by washing and brushing. Always clean moulds immediately after stripping as the soft cement paste will soon harden.
