Anti Carbonation Coating

What is Carbonation?

Carbonation is a chemical process where carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere reacts with the alkaline compounds in concrete - primarily calcium hydroxide - to form calcium carbonate. This reaction progressively lowers the pH of the concrete from ~13 to below 9, destroying the protective passive oxide film on embedded steel reinforcement.

Once the passivation film is lost, rebar corrosion begins rapidly in the presence of moisture and oxygen. Corroding rebar expands up to 6x in volume, causing concrete cracking, spalling, delamination, and ultimately structural failure. This is one of the most common causes of premature concrete deterioration in India.

Our Anti-Carbonation Coating Solution

JKumar Build Tech applies high-performance anti-carbonation coatings that create a physical barrier against CO2 penetration while remaining vapor-permeable - allowing moisture vapor to escape from the concrete, preventing blistering and delamination of the coating itself.

Our coatings are tested to EN 1062 and BBA certification standards, with proven CO2 diffusion resistance equivalent to 100+ metres of air. The systems accommodate micro-crack bridging up to 0.2mm - ensuring protection even as the structure undergoes normal thermal movement.

Application Process

1. Condition Assessment: Carbonation depth measurement using phenolphthalein indicator, rebar cover measurement, surface evaluation.
2. Surface Preparation: High-pressure water jetting or abrasive blasting to remove contamination, loose material, and existing failing coatings.
3. Crack Repair: Filling and sealing of all cracks greater than 0.1mm with flexible epoxy or polyurethane sealant.
4. Primer Application: Penetrating primer to improve adhesion and consolidate the concrete surface.
5. Anti-Carbonation Coating: 2-3 coats of elastomeric anti-carbonation coating applied by brush, roller, or spray.
6. Inspection & QA: Film thickness verification, adhesion testing, and completion report.

Key Applications