Primer

Summary

Primer - A primer can be applied between a concrete surface and an overlay or repair material to promote adhesion and act as a bonding agent.

Technical Information

Sometimes it is necessary to either fully or partially bond an overlay to the surface on which it is being laid. Primers can be used on their own to partially bond the surfaces together or they can be used in conjunction with mechanical preparation of the surface to fully bond the surfaces together.

Most primers have hydrophobic properties, meaning they can also help to reduce moisture entering through the underside of the overlay. They can also help to keep moisture in the overlay during the curing process if the overlay is a concrete wearing slab. The level of relative humidity present in the concrete substrate will help determine the type and number of primer coats required before applying the overlay system.

Primers are also used in the refurbishment of reinforced concrete structures. When concrete has cracked due to corroded steel, the damaged concrete and rust can be removed and the steel can be coated in a primer to protect it from further chemical attack.