How do EverKote 300 potassium silicate coatings work?
EverKote 300’s potassium silicate binder is produced by fusing potassium carbonate with silica at high temperature. The result is a soluble silicate, which can be dissolved in water to produce a liquid “waterglass.” Although soluble silicates can be air dried to form a film, maximum water resistance, bond strength and long-term durability depend on chemical reactions with the substrate or added catalysts. Substrates with which silicates can react include: • Calcium salts, typically found in Portland cement, lime and calcareous natural stones such as limestone and marble • Silica, typically present in siliceous sandstones, silica sand, mortars, stucco, concrete and glass • Ceramics, including brick and terra cotta • Iron, aluminum and other metals When EverKote 300 is applied to suitable substrates, it penetrates and reacts to form a hard, insoluble silicate. When applied to materials containing Portland cement, the silicate reacts with incompletely hydrated cement particles, converting
