Samhwa obtains patent for its paint which prevents concrete neutralization

The new paint is expected to strengthen the weather resistance, elasticity, and water repellency of concrete structures, helping owners reduce the cost of maintenance

Samhwa Paints released the news on Wednesday, March 6, of its recent success in obtaining a patent for its concrete neutralization resistance coating composition with enhanced weather resistance, elasticity and water repellency.

Concrete, one of the most commonly used building materials around the world, is a strong alkaline substance ranging from pH 12 to pH 13.5. It protects a structure’s internal steel rebar against corrosion. Carbon dioxide and the air itself, however, neutralizes concrete over time. If left unmitigated, this neutralization process can result in cracks in the concrete and breakage, and even lead to collapse of the entire structure.

Samhwa invented a new paint composition designed to protect the value of concrete buildings by preventing this neutralization. When applied properly, the new paint protects the concrete surface against weather and strengthens its elasticity and water repellency, ensuring the entire building’s durability and safety.

The new paint composition satisfies the Korean Standards’ KS M 6010 (Water-Soluble Paints) Class-1 Grade-1 standard. Samhwa had the composition tested for concrete surface elasticity and water repellency under harsher conditions than required under the KS F 4936 (Concrete-Protecting Coatings) standard, and verified its performance against the requirements of the KS F 2584 (Testing Accelerated Carbonation of Concrete) standard to confirm the superior effect it has on preventing concrete neutralization.

A Samhwa spokesperson explained: “Our new composition will help extend the value and durability of concrete surfaces and assist building owners in reducing the cost of keeping the concrete durable and maintaining their properties.”