Surface Armor System

Collaborative restoration system merging Vetrofluid deep-penetration technology with GST structural mortar for a permanent "New Concrete" lifecycle. Prevents spalling and erosion.

Applications

• Spalled concrete
• Eroded surfaces
• Industrial floors

FAQ

What is the correct way to mix Surface Armor™?

First, Elephant Armor Primer is diluted to a 1:1 ratio with clean water to create the required liquid mixture for Surface Armor™. The standard mix for most applications ranges from 1:1 to 2:1, meaning 2 parts Surface Armor™ dry powder with 1 part EA Primer/water mixture, by volume (not weight). Adjust your ratio based on required flowability: use 3:1 for initial spall/crack filling, 2:1 for standard second coats, or a highly flowable 2:1 for thin micro-fractures under 1/8" (4mm). Mix dry contents in a clean bucket to "fluff" the material prior to adding liquid. Add liquid and mix thoroughly using a ColloMix Xo-55 Duo for ~60 seconds. For small batches of 10 lbs (4.5kg) or less, a 1/2" (12mm) drill with an egg beater bit is acceptable. NOTE: Surface Armor™ has a short workability period with an initial set time of 15-20 minutes.

How do I prepare the damaged substrate before applying Surface Armor™?

Surfaces must be clean, sound, and free from bond breakers (oil, grease, dirt, curing compounds, acids). Mechanically roughen or high-pressure water jet (4,500 psi minimum) the concrete to an ICRI Concrete Surface Profile of CSP4 or higher. Pre-treat contaminated areas with GST Degreaser Pro or Pro-Grade Cleaner, followed by power washing. If the substrate is very porous or powdery, apply a mist coat of Ecobeton® Vetrofluid SA at 250 sq ft/gal to stabilize the surface. Allow 72 hours curing time on warm days (or a MINIMUM of 5 days if weather averages 50°F / 10°C or lower) before placing Surface Armor™. Power wash rinsed contaminants prior to placement. The concrete must be Saturated Surface Dry (SSD) with zero standing water. NOTE: Minimum temperatures for application and curing must be 40°F (5°C) or higher day and night; freezing temperatures cause failure. In cool weather, keep primer and powder at room temperature, or use a torch to warm the substrate.

How is Surface Armor™ applied and what is the maximum lift thickness?

Once clean and Vetrofluid SA has cured, apply the first micro-topping lift. Over-application is very common; keep mil build to a minimum. Use firm down-pressure with a squeegee trowel to apply maximum lift thicknesses of 1/32" to 1/16" (1-2 mm). For exposed aggregate or heavy textures, use a stiff bristle concrete broom instead of a squeegee. Allow first lift to fully cure (change color) before applying a second lift. Ensure Surface Armor™ is 100% cured before applying the final light coat of Vetrofluid SA.

Are there special instructions for vertical surface applications?

Use a 3:1 mixing ratio on vertical surfaces to prevent runs or streaks. Work the material from bottom to top using a GST Squeegee Trowel. On stairs, complete vertical risers before horizontal treads. Use a damp sponge or paint brush to blend transition areas while material is fresh. You can also mist with water and use a smooth roller or brush for finishing.

Can textured finishes (smooth, broomed, or stamped) be applied?

Yes. Smooth Finish: Mandates two thin coats applied with a squeegee trowel, followed by diamond pad sanding once cured (higher grit = smoother finish), clean dust, and seal with Vetrofluid SA. Broomed Finish: Perform immediately on the final coat as it is squeegeed into place; provides excellent slip resistance. Stamped Finish: Mandates a thicker mil build using a 3:1 mix ratio on the final coat with standard liquid release ("bubblegum release"). CRITICAL: If staining a stamped finish, do NOT apply Vetrofluid SA; use traditional film-forming acrylic sealers instead.

Can Surface Armor™ be used to resurface asphalt?

Yes, Surface Armor™ is a highly effective asphalt resurfacer for aging asphalt with minor cracking (do not use on severely degraded or alligatored asphalt). Ensure asphalt has NO previous coatings or sealers, and is thoroughly clean and dry. CRITICAL EXCEPTIONS FOR ASPHALT: 1. Do NOT use Saturated Surface Dry (SSD); asphalt must be dry. 2. Do NOT apply Vetrofluid SA as a pre-treatment on asphalt. Apply Surface Armor™ with firm squeegee down-pressure. Once the second coat is fully cured, apply a light post-treatment coat of Vetrofluid SA for a long-lasting finish.