DESCRIPTION
BIO-FLEX is formulated for effective field application by brush, or roller at normal ambient temperatures. The BIO-FLEX formulation is based on the unique IES-251 resin system which may be applied to damp or wet concrete surfaces and which has been flexibilised with an inert proprietary plasticiser. This resin system is toughened with KevlarTM* to give superior chip resistance and is pigmented with select hard ingredients to further enhance wear resistance.

The cured film is glossy with a slight texture resulting from the fibre reinforcement. Related products have been employed for underwater application and have been subjected to both radiation and DBA testing with excellent results. The resin system used has excellent resistance to commodities such as hydrocarbon oils and fuels, mineral acids and alkalis. The solvent-free formulation avoids the objectionable odour and explosion hazards of epoxy solvents. Absence of solvents also assures compliance with all present and proposed air pollution regulations and prevents common service problems caused by shrinkage or water sensitivity of residual entrained solvent residues.

*Kevlar is a Trademark of E.I. DuPont de Nemours Co.

USES
MARINE AND OFFSHORE Heavy duty maintenance for decks, tanks etc.
PETROCHEMICAL Anticorrosive for use under insulation or on sweating surfaces.
POWER GENERATION Ideal for draft tubes, penstocks, waterboxes and tubesheets.
FLOORING Exc. chemical and physical resistant flooring with or without abrasive.
SECONDARY CONTAINMENT Easy to apply, chemical and UV resistant lining.

APPEARANCE
COLOURS All colours available including white (slight yellowing)
FINISH Gloss with slight texture

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
VEHICLE TYPE Epoxy/inert plasticiser/proprietary polyamines
PIGMENTATION Colour, fibrous reinforcing, inert extender
THINNER Not required
CLEANER Lacquer thinner or similar
MIXING RATIO 2.0/1.0 (Volume)
INDUCTION TIME not required
POT LIFE Approx. 40 minutes/77 degrees F (25 degrees C)
SOLIDS BY VOLUME 100%
REC. DRY THICKNESS 15 - 30 mils (.38 - .76 mm)
THEO. SPREAD RATE 80 sq. ft./gal. @ 20 mils; 2 sq.m/l @ .5mm
DRY TIME (TOUCH) Approx. 5 Hrs/77 degrees F (25 degrees C)
DRY TIME (HARD) Approx. 15 Hrs/77 degrees F (25 degrees C) Max. cure in 7 days
APPLICATION METHOD Roller, brush, heated plural airless spray
FLEXIBILITY Approx. 25% elongation at break
SHELF LIFE 12 Months minimum
VOC Zero

SAFETY INFORMATION
LINK TO MEDICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL PAGE
FLASH POINT Over 200 degrees F or 93 degrees C (Closed Cup)
STORAGE CONDITIONS Normal

SURFACE PREPARATION
NEW CONCRETE Surfaces are best prepared by abrasive blasting to roughen and remove the weak surface laitance. When prepared properly the surface should have the firm granular appearance of "medium" sandpaper.

AGED CONCRETE Surfaces may be prepared by either high pressure water jetting at sufficient pressure to remove all loose contamination and yielding a firm,. "medium" sandpaper finish. Worn concrete in wastewater service may be prepared using only about 3,500 psi however, aged concrete which has never been in aggressive service may require jetting with over 8,000 psi to achieve the same result. Air abrasive blasting is also a satisfactory method of preparation. If the concrete is extremely worn it may be faired smooth before application of the BIO-FLEX using BIO-FILL or BIO-FILL plus depending on anticipated exposure.

STEEL Surface is best prepared by air abrasive blasting to a "near-white", (SA2.5, SSPC-SP-10) BIO-FLEX is extremely tolerant of compromised surfaces and will provide excellent protection over tight rust or existing coating residues in sound condition. The solvent-free formulation avoids softening of underlying coatings, BIO-FLEX may even be applied over Styrofoam¨ without softening it.

APPLICATION
BIO-FLEX is supplied in two gallon (7.6 litres) units. 1.33 gallons (5 litres) of epoxy base are filled into a two gallon plastic pail and 0.67 gallons (2.5 l) of curing agent are filled into a one gallon steel can to yield a 2/1 mixing ratio. Stir the curing agent into the base preferably using a mechanical mixer. Once mixing is complete, start application immediately - BIO-FLEX does not require a "sweat-in" or induction time. Potlife is about 40 minutes at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C), small amounts of epoxy solvent may be added if the mixture begins to thicken noticeably towards the end of its working life. Apply BIO-FLEX using brush, pad or roller in smaller areas or with a heated, plural component airless spray on larger jobs. Underwater application is best made using rollers or paint pads after surface preparation by air/abrasive or high pressure water blasting to remove loose surface contamination and marine biological fouling.

Applications may be made in one full coat at the required millage or may be made in multiple coats if necessary. Underwater applications are best made in one heavy coat to avoid the complications of biological settlement between coats. Above water it may be necessary to "stripe coat" edges to ensure adequate coverage.

If airless plural spraying, the following conditions are recommended:
Ratio: Base/Cure: 2.11/1.0 (Volume) Fluid Temperature: 130 degrees F (54 degrees C)
Tip: 30 thous" - angle to suit application Fluid Pressure: 2,250 psi
Cleaning Solvent: MEK or standard epoxy thinner

TEMPERATURE
Temperature will exert a considerable influence on the rate of curing of chemically cured coatings such as BIO-FLEX. In broad terms expect each 10 degrees C, (18 degrees F), rise or fall in temperature to half or double dry times and pot lives.

TRANSPORTATION
USDOT, IATA & IMO "Non-Regulated"

NOTES

SAFETY: This is a hazardous material if misused. Read and understand the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) before use.

WARRANTY DISCLAIMER: The technical data given herein has been compiled for your help and guidance and is based upon our experience and knowledge. However, as we have no control over the use to which this information is put, no warranty, express or implied is intended or given. We assume no responsibility whatsoever for coverage, performance or damages, including injuries resulting from use of this information or of products recommended herein.