Applying Epoxy Coatings Underwater and On Wet Or Damp Surfaces

摘要

Underwater painting sounds like some sort of parlor trick, but there are actually a number of epoxy coatings ad repair products that can be applied to damp, wet, saturated, or submerged surfaces as well as used in environments of very high humidity. Typical work sites can include pits, sumps, underwater supports, boats, piers and pilings and all sorts of below grade structures. The ability to patch, seal, encapsulate, reinforce, and protect objects, in place and in wet environments, is a much more attractive option than the alternative which is usually demolish and rebuild from scratch. Despite the obvious advantages of moisture tolerant coating/repair products, such epoxies are not widely known or understood. The concept of underwater painting remains out of the belief of most industrial and marine maintenance professionals. However, with a slowing economy and fewer replacement dollars available, in situ rehabilitation or repair of existing structures, be they docks, yachts, ships, or dams, is becoming more of a more likely option. In some cases the object might not be exactly underwater, just water saturated. An example would be an empty cement pit, manhole or sump that has contained water for many years. The cement is completely water saturated and will remain so for a very longtime.