Modification of 100% Solids Epoxy Grout with Ancamine K-54 to Decrease the Set Time

Modification of 100% Solids Epoxy Grout with Ancamine K-54 to Decrease the Set Time

100% solids epoxy grouts ideally should be water cleanable, three components, mortar and grout system designed for setting and grouting vitreous, semi-vitreous or absorptive tile: ceramic, mosaic, quarry, cement, Impervious porcelain and glass tile, brick and mini- brick, precast terrazzo, natural stone tile over a wide variety of substrates. This product yields exceptionally high strength, and it offers maximum resistance to staining and chemical attack from food, beverages, chemicals and cleaning agents. The product should also be uniform in color and colorfast. One of the most common applications of 100% solids epoxy grout is in the restaurant industry. Antibacterial agents in the grout combined with its resistance to harsh cleaning chemicals make it an idea fit. This study describes the modification to the commercially available grout formulation necessary to increase the rate at which the epoxy grout sets up. The design goal for this particular application is to be set and tact free within 6 hours. A normal set times is 24 hours. To accelerate the set, Ancamine K-54, mixture of tris-2,4,6-(dimethylaminomethyl) Phenol and bis (dimethylamino) phenol was added. This study describes the factors affecting setting rates and the level of K-54 required to achieve setting in 6 hours.