Resources

Calcium chloride testing is a vital step in assessing a concrete slab's readiness for covering materials. The test measures a slab's moisture vapor emission rates by placing a pre-weighed calcium chloride disc under a sealed sheet for 24 hours. The accumulated weight helps calculate vapor emission rates, which ideally range between 3-5. Technicians must adhere to specific protocols to ensure accurate results, which include meticulous surface preparation and maintaining the test setup for 60-72 hours.

Epoxy bond strength on floors are assessed using specific tools and protocols to ensure adherence to industry standards. Measurement tools include tensile testing machines, peel strength test devices, and surface preparation tools. To determine if a surface is ready for epoxy bonding, technicians conduct various tests such as moisture testing, visual and tactile inspections, pH testing and surface roughness measurements. Pull-off testing, following ASTM D4541 guidelines, measures the epoxy's bond strength by applying a controlled force on the surface.

Calcium chloride testing is crucial for successful epoxy floor installations by providing data on subfloor moisture levels. The test requires a very specific environment, with temperatures between 65-75°F and a humidity of 40-60% for roughly 72 hours. Equipment selection, meticulous test site cleaning, and adherence to test setup are key steps to ensure accurate results. These results inform whether the concrete meets manufacturers’ moisture level requirements for epoxy installation. If moisture levels are too high it can lead to coating failure and decreased floor longevity.