Chemforce Forti-Col Colloidal Silica Densifier

FORTI-COL™ Concrete Densifier – Colloidal Silica for Polishing, Curing & Sealing

• Colloidal silica is the latest and best technology amongst the silicates:
• Smaller molecule size = better penetration and quicker curing.
• Smaller particle size = greater surface area with more reactive sites = better CSH (hydrogel) structures inside the pores.
• Formulated with advanced additives to optimize penetration
• Contains smaller particles than other colloidal densifiers
• Lower, non-caustic pH is safer for people & surfaces
• Does not break down under UV so lasts for decades, even outdoors
• Water-based, zero VOC

Applications of Forti-Col™ Concrete Densifier

• Concrete densifier for polishing: Forti-Col™ is a colloidal silicate with the smallest particle size – smaller than other silicates so it can be used to impregnate concrete in the earlier stages of grinding (after 80 to 100 grit grind) and later stages (after using a 400 grit polishing pad). Impregnating twice – once in the early grinding stages and again after the 400 grit pad, is recommended for optimal results.
• Anti-dusting and curing treatment for green (freshly poured) concrete: To attain full strength, newly poured concrete needs to retain its water content for long enough for the maximum amount of cement to react and form the correct hydrogels to make the maximum number of bonds. Treating the concrete with penetrating Forti-Col™ will form CSH hydrogel inside the pores of the concrete, substantially restricting water bleed and evaporation so water is retained and the concrete can cure properly. Because Forti-Col™ is more reactive and has more bonding sites per molecule, it builds on itself and forms better hydrogel structures in the pores than other silicates.
• Primer / moisture barrier membrane for green concrete: Treating the concrete with penetrating Forti-Col™ will form CSH hydrogel inside the pores of the concrete, substantially restricting water bleed and evaporation so coatings and other floor coverings can be applied immediately. Freshly poured concrete contains a lot of water which evaporates and causes coatings to blister and delaminate, salts to redeposit underneath and lift tiles, damp and mould growth under carpeting, insulation matting, wood etc. So, slabs are usually left to cure for 60 days before installing flooring.

NOTE: If a 100% membrane is needed against water and water vapour, for example:

•  areas where water can pool and sit for extended periods, such as bathrooms
•  areas where concrete will move and crack over time
•  surfaces where there can be chemical spills

a suitable acrylic or epoxy class 3 membrane with sufficient elasticity, elongation and chemical resistance is recommended.

Available Pack Sizes

• 5L (1.3GAL)
• 15L (4GAL)
• 20L (5.3GAL)

How to Use Forti-Col™

IMPORTANT: Always test on an inconspicuous area and allow to dry to check the result.

Anti-Dusting Treatment Instructions

• Ensure the concrete is dry inside before applying. If applying as an anti-dusting / treatment on freshly poured (green) concrete, give the concrete a minimum of 2 hours cure time to allow concrete to react and use up most of its water before applying.
• Apply when surface temperature is above 2°Celsius (36° F) and below 27°Celsius (80°F).
• Apply generously with a pump sprayer, saturating the surface evenly so it remains glistening wet for at least 5 – 10 minutes. Avoid pooling.
• If all the Forti-Col™ penetrates within 10 minutes, apply a second coat.
• Application rate PER COAT: approximately 4 to 10 m²
• DO NOT dilute – Forti-Col™ is ready-to-use out of the container. Tap water can reduce its penetrating power.

Concrete Polishing Instructions

• Forti-Col™ is best for the later stages of concrete polishing, after grouting and after 200 grit resin pads, in place of a Lithium Silicate.
• For earlier stages of densification after grinding with 30 to 100 grit metal-bond pads, we recommend Forti-Col EG™ or Forti-Kal™.
• Apply generously with a pump sprayer, saturating the surface evenly so it remains glistening wet for at least 5 – 10 minutes. Avoid pooling.
• If all the Forti-Col™ penetrates within 10 minutes, apply another coat.
• Application rate PER COAT for later densification: approx 6 to 15 m² / L (240 to 600 square ft / G).
• DO NOT dilute – Forti-Col™ is ready-to-use out of the container. Tap water can reduce its penetrating power.

Colour Accuracy Disclaimer: We have taken care to display the most accurate visuals of our products. However, we are not responsible for the colour accuracy of the device you are viewing our swatches on. These variations arise due to different computer monitors and devices (make, model and technology, as well as resolution, contrast and brightness control settings) in much the same way a scan will differ from an original image and a colour photocopy. Furthermore, coatings can exhibit variation in perceived colour depending on gloss level and application method. If you require a very specific colour match, please make your selection via actual swatches and colour boards available at our showroom.

Product Disclaimer: Ensure you read all product, technical and safety data sheets prior to application as liability falls on the applicator. All products must be applied in accordance with manufacturer’s recommended method.