INFORMATION

Mitigation of Amine Blush 1489

a two page issue January 2011

What is amine blush?

Amine blush is the development of a greasy, waxy residue that can develop on the
surface of epoxies. It is also commonly referred to as “sweating”. Blushing is the
reaction of un-reacted amines on the surface of the coating film with moisture and
carbon dioxide. The presence of amine blush will result in poor inter-coat adhesion of
subsequently applied coats.

How can amine blush be prevented?

In general, most any epoxy can be subject to blushing under certain conditions. Some
epoxy coatings are more prone to blushing than others. The main contributing
factors are 1) high humidity, 2) presence of excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
(though many normal indoor levels are sufficient), and 3) low curing temperatures.
The following precautions should be taken:
 After mixing, adhere to all recommended induction or “sweat in” times in the product
literature
 Avoid sources of direct combustion such as direct-fired heaters, forklifts, welding
equipment, and combustion engines.
 Ensure coating products are stored in warm conditions (room temperature or slightly
warmer)
 Ensure environmental conditions are favorable for good coating practices, especially
ensuring surface temperatures remain at least 5 0F (3 0C) above the dew point
temperatures throughout curing.

How can amine blush be detected?

Amine blush is best detected by lightly rubbing the surface to detect a greasy or waxy
film or to see the visual effect in gloss where the film has been wiped (due to
“smearing” of the residue). The surface may have a dull, patchy appearance when
viewed at different angles. There are field test kits based on bromothymol blue
indicator that can give a qualitative indication that a blush may be present. Surfaces
where the indicator turns from yellow to a red indicate a likelihood that an amine
blush is present. Other indicator solutions are commercially available that indicate the
presence of un-reacted amine compounds with a distinct “yellow-to-blue” indication.

What is the proper procedure for removing amine blush?

Amine blush can be cleaned by wiping with a 50/50 mixture of ethanol (or iso-
propanol) in water. Wiping should be done in a disciplined fashion working in one
direction (preferably top –down) and changing rags often to avoid smearing the
residue from one area to another. Vinegar/water solutions have also been used
successfully. Application of Prep 88 cleaner, diluted 2 parts water to 1 part
concentrate, followed by light scrubbing with a stiff nylon brush and then by power
washing, is also an effective method.
 INFORMATION

Mitigation of Amine Blush 1489

(Please refer to the application instructions for Prep 88 Cleaner). Hot/warm water
should be used whenever possible as it is more effective in dissolving the blush
residue.

Sweep blasting of the surface can also be effective to ensure complete removal of a
blush residue prior to recoating, but it is recommended that the surface be pressure
washed with clean water prior to sweep blasting to avoid driving the amine salts into
the film.

After cleaning the surface it is imperative that the surface be re-inspected to ensure
thorough removal has been accomplished.

Limitation of Liability - The information in this data sheet is based upon laboratory tests we believe
to be accurate and is intended for guidance only. All recommendations or suggestions relating to the use
of the Sigma Coatings products made by PPG Protective & Marine Coatings, whether in technical
documentation, or in response to a specific enquiry, or otherwise, are based on data which to the best of
our knowledge are reliable. The products and information are designed for users having the requisite
knowledge and industrial skills and it is the end-user's responsibility to determine the suitability of the
product for its intended use.
PPG Protective & Marine Coatings has no control over either the quality or condition of the substrate, or
the many factors affecting the use and application of the product. PPG Protective & Marine Coatings does
therefore not accept any liability arising from loss, injury or damage resulting from such use or the
contents of this data sheet (unless there are written agreements stating otherwise).
The data contained herein are liable to modification as a result of practical experience and continuous
product development.
This data sheet replaces and annuls all previous issues and it is therefore the user’s responsibility to
ensure that this sheet is current prior to using the product.