| Process |
A paint system which reacts with atmospheric moisture to form a hard silicate structure. Most often applied as zinc rich primer. |
| Strengths |
Hard finish with rapid initial hardness, but for full curing takes extended period. Good solvent resistance, and excellent temperature resistance to 400 C. Good abrasion resistance. |
| Weaknesses |
Requires minimum 50% humidity, so internal applications can encounter curing problems. Needs substrates shotblasted for good adhesion. Can suffer from "mud cracking" if applied thickly (>120u). Limited impact resistance, and poor acid and alkali resistance. Poor flexibility. Poor gloss and colour retention. |
| Durability |
10 years with topcoats. |
| Cost |
£7 sqm on its own, but never used this way. Blast price and application in addition to this rate. |
| Health and Safety |
Standard site issues apply. Many disadvantages to this application, dealt with in detail in previous sections. |
| Environmental |
Standard paint issues apply. Many disadvantages to this application, dealt with in detail in previous sections Refer to forenote on directory. |
