Bitumen primer
Bitumen primer, a 20th-century innovation, revolutionized construction by enhancing surface adhesion and waterproofing. The Barrett Company filed the first patent for a bitumen-based primer for concrete applications in 1914.
Primers have evolved to improve asphalt shingles with faster drying, stronger adhesion, and increased durability, making them vital in modern construction.
Description on bitumen primer
Bitumen primer is a cold-applied, solvent-based coating designed to prime and seal surfaces like concrete, masonry, and timber. Ideal for self-adhesive and torch-on membranes, it enhances adhesion and improves the performance of bituminous waterproof coatings on porous substrates.
Its high-performance, penetrative primer seals porous surfaces, ensuring proper adhesion of bitumen products to metal, concrete, brick, and existing bituminous surfaces.
The quick-curing formula ensures excellent penetration and strong adhesion without surface tackiness, even on wet surfaces. Bitumen primer coverage can vary depending on the specific product and surface, typically ranging from 0.2 to 0.3 liters per square meter.
Types of bitumen primer
This versatile primer is essential in construction and maintenance, ensuring long-lasting bonding and excellent adhesion in various applications. Bitumen-primer is available in two types:
Solvent-Based Primer
This type of bitumen-primer serves as a sealer for masonry and concrete surfaces, boosting the adhesion of bituminous materials. It is particularly effective as a bitumen primer for concrete, strengthening the bond between the substrate and bituminous coatings or membranes.
Here are some properties of this type:
- Multipurpose primer for porous and non-porous surfaces
- Cold application, fast-drying
- Enhances adhesion for bitumen membranes
- High coverage rate
- Strengthens surfaces and eliminates dust
Water-Based Primer
A safer option, this primer reduces concrete porosity and helps block dust. It is non-flammable and poses no safety risks during application, making it ideal for environments requiring an eco-friendlier approach.
Here are some properties of this type:
- Ensures strong adhesion for bituminous membranes
- Forms a waterproof, water-insoluble layer as water evaporates
- Safe for interior use, non-toxic and non-flammable
- Eco-friendly, water-based formulation
- Effectively bonds to surfaces, even when moist
Bitumen primer specifications
The general and performance specifications are detailed in the chart below.
Bitumen-Primer Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
| Composition | Bitumen, solvents, optional synthetic polymers or fibers |
| Application Temperature | 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F) |
| Drying Time | 4 to 24 hours, depending on temperature, humidity, and thickness |
| Coverage Rate | 0.2 to 0.3 liters per square meter (0.04 to 0.06 gallons per square foot) |
| Flash Point | 30°C to 60°C (86°F to 140°F) |
| Coverage | 3.5 – 5 square meters per liter |
| Viscosity | 50-100 cps @ 20°C (Brookfield RVT Spindle 2, Speed 50 rpm) |
| Specific Gravity | 0.89 +/- 0.02 |
| Solids Content | Minimum 40% by weight |
| Flash Point | 38°C |
| Drying Time | Touch dry after 30 minutes, and completely dry after 1.5 hours. |
| Method of Use | Apply by brush or spray. |
| Surface Preparation | Surfaces should be clean, and free from oil, grease, dirt, dust, and loose debris. |
Bitumen primer uses and benefits
Being versatile makes this substance beneficial in different fields. The main advantages of this substance are explained.
| benefits | Description |
| Improved Bonding | Enhances adhesion to various substrates, ensuring a long-lasting and durable bond. |
| Binder for Dust Particles | Reduces dust accumulation, improving surface conditions for coatings. |
| Surface Dressing | Creates a smooth, even base for further coatings on materials like masonry, metal, and more. |
| Water-Resistant | Prevents water penetration, ideal for waterproofing applications. |
| Bitumen Primer Waterproofing | Provides enhanced waterproofing properties, protecting surfaces from water damage and ensuring durability in wet conditions. |
| Corrosion & Chemical Resistance | Protects against rust, corrosion, and chemicals, increasing structure longevity. |
| Seals Porous Surfaces | Penetrates and seals porous materials, ensuring a solid foundation for bituminous membranes and coatings. |
| Fast-Drying | Dries quickly, enabling faster project completion while maintaining quality adhesion. |
| Cost-Effective | No need for heating, thinning, or mixing, making it an affordable, easy-to-use solution. |
| Versatility | Ideal for use on a range of substrates, including concrete, masonry, bitumen primer for metal, and existing bituminous surfaces. |
Bitumen primer uses:
Waterproofing and Damp Proofing
Bitumen primer is used for waterproofing and damp-proofing, creating a strong bond between surfaces like concrete, brick, and metal and waterproofing membranes.
It prevents water penetration in areas like basements, tunnels, and retaining walls, protecting structures from moisture damage.
Roofing Systems
In roofing, bitumen-primer prepares surfaces for bituminous membranes or shingles, improving adhesion and creating a durable, waterproof layer. This is especially important for flat and low-slope roofs, where water accumulation can be problematic.
Road Construction
In road construction, this substance strengthens the bond between the base and asphalt, enhancing durability and preventing cracks and potholes.
Pipe Coating
Bitumen primer is applied to metal pipes to prevent corrosion, especially in industries like oil and gas, enhancing the longevity of pipelines by improving adhesion with protective coatings.
Bridge Decks and Concrete Structures
In bridge construction, bitumen-primer treats concrete surfaces before applying protective coatings, preventing water and chloride penetration that can cause corrosion and structural deterioration.
Industrial Flooring
Bitumen-primer is used to prepare surfaces for industrial flooring, ensuring strong bonding between the substrate and flooring material, and providing a durable surface for high-traffic and tough industrial environments.
How to apply primer bitumen?
Bitumen primer is essential for construction, offering benefits like improved adhesion, moisture resistance, and corrosion protection. It’s commonly used in waterproofing, roofing, and road construction to enhance durability.
The application of bitumen-primer ensures the longevity of bituminous coatings. Recent advancements, such as high-pressure spraying and self-healing primers, improve performance and safety, ensuring reliable protection in modern construction.
Surface Preparation
Ensure surfaces are clean, dry, sound, and free from grease, rust, or dirt. Remove moss or lichen using a fungicidal wash if necessary. Apply a rust-inhibiting product like red oxide or zinc phosphate on bare metal.
Apply a thin, even coat using a brush or roller. Avoid pooling and extend the primer at least 75mm beyond the waterproofing area. Allow 2-3 hours to dry before proceeding.
Spray Application Technology
Spray Application Technology include:
High-Pressure Spray Systems
High-pressure spray systems enable rapid, uniform application, ensuring consistent coverage and optimal adhesion. They are ideal for large areas and penetrate porous surfaces effectively. Advantages include uniform coverage, speed and efficiency, and reduced material waste.
Thermal Spraying
Involves heating the bitumen primer to improve fluidity and penetration, especially effective on aged concrete and weathered metal. Advantages include enhanced penetration, stronger adhesion, and temperature flexibility.
Automated Application Systems
Robotic sprayers ensure precise, uniform coverage, reducing human error and improving efficiency. Advantages include precision on complex surfaces, consistency in thickness, and reduced labor.
Advanced Surface Preparation
Advanced Surface Preparation include:
Laser Cleaning Technology
Laser cleaning technology uses lasers to remove contaminants without damaging the substrate. Advantages include being non-abrasive, eco-friendly, and offering precise targeting.
Electrostatic Application
Charged particles are attracted to the substrate, ensuring efficient, even coverage. Advantages include a uniform coating on intricate surfaces, reduced waste, and enhanced adhesion.
Self-Healing Primers
Innovative material science or Self-healing primers contain microcapsules that automatically repair small cracks and defects. Advantages include increased durability, reduced maintenance, and cost-effectiveness.
Smart Primers with Sensors
Embedded sensor technology Monitors the condition of the coating, providing real-time data for proactive maintenance. Advantages include real-time monitoring, data-driven decisions, and enhanced safety.
Sustainable Application Methods
Eco-friendly practices and Techniques like biodegradable solvents and energy-efficient equipment minimize environmental impact. Advantages include environmental protection, regulatory compliance, and community health benefits.
Bitumen primer price
Bitumen primer price depends on factors like brand, quality, quantity, and location. Generally, a 5-gallon pail costs between $50 and $150, while a 55-gallon drum ranges from $500 to $1,200 or more.
Bitumen primer Sika (an international producer and distributor company) generally costs between $30 and $150, depending on the specific product and size. Here’s an estimated price range:
- Sikalastic Rapid Primer Asphalt (10 kg): $50–$80.
- Sika Primer-115 (1-liter bottle): $30–$50 per liter.
- Sika IgolGrund (10 liters): $100–$150.
Prices vary based on shipping, taxes, and demand. While cost is important, quality and performance matter too. Cheaper options may offer less durability, so compare prices and details from trusted suppliers.
Where to purchase?
Kiapetro is a dynamic company specializing in the manufacturing, procurement, distribution, and export of high-quality bitumen-primers. We focus on delivering superior primer solutions to meet the diverse needs of customers worldwide.
We offer competitive pricing without compromising product excellence, providing cost-effective bitumen primers for various applications.
Our efficient and reliable delivery process ensures the timely arrival of orders. Kiapetro also offers flexible payment options tailored to meet client needs. All our products, including bitumen-primers, adhere to international standards, ensuring consistent performance, durability, and reliability.
FAQ
- How long does bitumen-primer take to dry?
Drying time is 1–4 hours, but wait 24 hours before applying bitumen coatings for best results.
- Can I dilute bitumen-primer?
Yes, it can be diluted. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Can I apply bitumen-primer over old bitumen coatings?
Yes, it can be applied over old coatings if the surface is clean and dry.