F.A.Q.

What are nanomaterials?

Nanotechnology is a field of science and engineering concerned with the manipulation of matter at incredibly small sizes, at the scale and size of atoms and molecules. Nanomaterials are composed and made of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles are defined as particles with at least one external dimension 100 nm or less. Due to their very small size, nanoparticles have different physical and chemical properties compared to larger bulk materials. Thanks to these differences, nanoparticles open new perspectives in areas such as environmental applications, water repellency and sealing, decomposition of liquid and gaseous pollutants and antimicrobial action.



What is a nanometer?

The nanometer (one millionth of a meter) corresponds to one tenth of a millimeter, which is the thickness of a human hair. Alternatively, imagine that if the diameter of the earth was 1 meter then an orange would have a diameter of 1 nanometer.



What has nature got to do with nanotechnology?

Nature has been using nanotechnology for millions of years. For example, the surfaces of fruits, vegetables and leaves are natural water repellents. One needs to only observe rainwater as it falls onto these, dripping off like a pearl.



Can a paint or an elastomeric coating be applied to a surface previously covered with Aquashield Porus?

All types of paints (water borne and solvent borne) or elastomeric coating can be applied to a surface that has previously been treated with Aquashield Porus.



Does applying Aquashield Porus to a surface change the appearance of the surface?

1. Concrete surfaces: No change. 2. Stone surfaces: Wet look appearance with slight darkening of colour. 3. Honed marmble: No change It is advised to sample a small surface area before applying Aquashield Porus.



Do water repelling products protect the surface from the sun's ultraviolet radiation?

All our water repellent products are based an nanotechnology resulting in the formation of a non-film shield on the substrate surface. No membrane film is created. As a result, the surface is not protected from ultraviolet irradiation.



How is Aquashield Porus applied?

Make sure the surface is clean and dry before application. Aquashield Porus is applied using a brush, roller or low pressure spray gun. Apply slowly and evenly. For best results apply a second coat in a crosswise manner after 3 hours of first application. Avoid surface from becoming wet for 24 hours after final applicatoin. In case of marble remove excess material with a soft dry cloth 15-20 minutes after application. A second coat may not be needed for stone and marble surfaces.



How long does leftover product last once container has been opened?

Leftover product that has been opened should be closed up tightly, stored in a cool, dark, dry place and used within 2 months.



What product can I use for small cracks?

Aquashield Nanoprimer can be added to mortar for obvious cracks. Apply mortar thoroughly and plentifully over surface crack. Good adhesion, elasticity and water repellency is achieved. For best results apply Aquashield Porus to entire surface 48 hours later.



Why should I use Aquashield Porus and not an elastomeric coating on my rooftop?

The big problem with elastomeric roof coatings is that they do not let the surface breathe. When dealing with a rooftop, one needs to consider the moisture that develops on the outside (external environment) and the moisture that develops inside (internal environment). When an elastomeric roof coating material is used very good waterproofing from above (externally) is ensured. However, with the passage of time moisture will develop from below (internally) resulting in the absorption of this moisture by the underside of the roof structure or ceiling. The elastomeric coating will swell and pop as it is unable to absorb any more moisture. Aquashield Porus maintains the breathability of the underside roof structure or ceiling allowing moisture to move outwards but preventing moisture from penetraitng inwards. Furthermore, Aquashield Porus is cost-effective and can be applied by both professional and amateur alike.



How do I apply Aquashield Wood?

The wooden surface should be clean and absorbent, unvarnished, dry, free of dust, dirt, oils, varnishes and waxes. Remove all loose flaking and unstable material. Apply with brush, roller or low-pressure spray gun. Maximum effect is achieved 24 hours after final coat (2 coats are recommended, allowing 3-4 hours between each coat). If desired, wood paint can be applied to surface 48 hours after final application.