Many of us are so used to contemplating gray concrete and the same paving slabs that we don’t imagine that it can be somehow different. In fact, they can be varied with the help of special pigments. Modern industry produces dyes, which you will learn about in today's article.
What requirements should pigment for concrete meet ?
Considering that this material is systematically exposed to chemical and physical influences, the dye used for it should not change its initial shade under the influence of atmospheric precipitation and sunlight. It is important that it does not dissolve in water and has a high degree of alkali resistance.
You should also pay attention to its ability to transmit its shade to the surface on which it is applied. Dispersion plays an important role in this matter. It is this indicator that characterizes the ability to overlap a different color. In addition, the pigment for concrete must have a high level of oil absorption.
Variety of assortment
Modern manufacturers offer a fairly wide selection of such products. Depending on what is part of the pigments, they can be divided into several groups. The first category includes acid dyes, which are most popular among domestic consumers. They are a powdery composition with a transparent structure. Such products do not adversely affect human health and do not pollute the environment.
Acrylic dyes are considered equally demanded. They are ideal for concrete floors and walls. Such a pigment is good in that it can be used not only for external but also for internal work.
Those who want to radically transform their own yard can be advised to pay attention to dry coloring matter. Their main advantage is that by the shade of the powder you can accurately determine what the final result will be. The only caveat associated with the use of dry mixes is that they must be applied to completely new concrete.
Tile Dye
The color of paving slabs can be changed using special pigments. Today, manufacturers offer a fairly wide range of similar products. On sale you can often see rubber pigments made on a water basis. They are not sensitive to sudden temperature changes and are characterized by increased elasticity and wear resistance. They are good in that the composition of the coloring matter does not include solvents.
Often, alkyd pigments for concrete are used for tiles. They are resistant to chemicals and protect the surface from destruction. The only significant drawback of such funds is the presence of a specific pungent odor that persists for a long time.
Also suitable for paving slabs are polyurethane dyes, which are characterized by high impact strength. But there is one subtlety. When used for outdoor use, shade changes may occur. All other properties are fully preserved.
Basic methods for coloring tiles
If it becomes necessary to change the shade of the already laid coating, it is advisable to use the so-called surface technology. This technique allows to increase the color gamut and reduce the slip. In the process of such staining, alkyd and polyurethane pigments are used. Since the main requirement for street coverings is that the material does not lose its original appearance for as long as possible, the composition of such a dye includes mainly natural components.
In addition, there is another technology. This is the so-called through dyeing, in the process of which finely dispersed powdered pigments are used. Such dyes also consist of natural components. But among them there are also artificial types of tinting additives. For their production, mineral raw materials are used, which are subjected to heat treatment.