Title:
Effects of Adhesives on Moisture-Sensitive Floor-Covering Performance
Author(s):
Bruce A. Suprenant
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
25
Issue:
6
Appears on pages(s):
59-62
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
6/1/2003
Abstract:
When installing nonbreathable floor coverings such as vinyl or rubber sheet goods, plastic-backed carpeting, or vinyl composition tile on concrete floors, the floor-covering adhesive affects flooring performance. The concrete surface can absorb water from a water-based adhesive. The water then dissolves alkalis in the concrete, increasing pH. The increased surface moisture content and pH can affect the adhesion of the flooring to the concrete substrate. Also, pulloff strength of the adhesive is dependent on adhesive composition, so some adhesives perform better than others at a given concrete moisture content or moisture-vapor emission rate. This article presents preliminary data on flooring performance.