lil§•=t Inch-Pound Units I

An ACI Standard

Multi-Component Epoxy
Adhesive for Bonding to
Concrete-Specification
Reported by ACI Committee 548

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December 2021
ISBN: 978-1-64195-167-8

Multi-Component Epoxy Adhesive for Bonding to Concrete-Specification

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 ACI SPEC-548.13-21

Multi-Component Epoxy Adhesive for Bonding to

Concrete-Specification
Reported by ACI Committee 548

Mahmoud M. Reda Taha. Chair

Ashraf I. Ah,ned David \V. Fowlc.r Joseph A. Nuciforo Jr. Donald P. Tragianese
Mohammad A. Alhassan Quentin L Hibb,m John R. Robinson Wafeek s . Wahby
Jacques A. Bertta1\d Albe11 0 . Kaeding Michael L. Schmidt David Whire
Const.anljn Bode.a Jay Lee Joseph R. Solomon
Chris Davis John R. f,.•filliron Michae1 M. Sprinkel
Don Edwards Bradley Ne,mun.aitis Michael S. Stenko

Consulting Members
M ilton D. Anderson Loch Cwmecki Wi11iam Lee Ha.mid Saadutm:1nesh
Lu Anqi Harold (Don) R, Edwards Troy D. Mudclcy Donald A. Schmidt
Craig A. Ballinger Larry J. FnrrcJl Henry N. Marsh Jr. Meyer S1ci11berg
John J. Rur1holomcw Goorgc Horcczko Pet.er f\<fendis Hnrold H. \Vcbe-r Jr,
Shashi P. 8ha1nagar David P. Hu Pe1er J. Moss
Jerry 0. Ryrne 8ert Paul Kriekcmans Yoshihiko Ohama
Zhi-Yuan Chen Ocon Kruger Kelly M . Page

This Specffication describes bonding fi-esh concrete, hardened CONTENTS

conc,.e1e, steel. tmd orher materitds as covered in Section 2.3 to
hardened concrete with a 1nulli-compo11eltl epoxy adhesive as
deji11ed for 1his pu,pose i11 ASTM CSSJ/C88!1W. Included are SECTION 1-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS, p. 2
controls /Or adhesive labeling: storage: handling: smj(1ce e.valu• I. I- Scope. p. 2
atio1t and preparariou,· mixing ,md application: and inspection. 1.2- lnterpretation, p. 2
safety, quality colllrol. and testlng. 1.3- Definitions, p. 2
1.4- Referenced standards, p. 3
Kepvords: adhit>sive: bond; cons-truc,ion~ epoxy: epoxy resin; fresh
1.5- Submitrnls, p. 3
concrete; quality control; repair: safety; surfoce.
1.6- Deli very. storage, and handling, p. 3
1.7- Project conditions. p. 3
1.8- Control of adhesive mixture. p. 3

SECTION 2- BONDING HARDENED CONCRETE,

STEEL, AND OTHER MATERIALS TO
HARDENED CONCRETE, p. 3
2.1- Gencral, p. 3
2.2- Products. p. 3
2.3- Execui ion. p. 4

ACI SPEC-548. 13-21 supttscdesAC'I $48.13-14 a,ld was adop1cd Aug.1is127, 2021 ,
Copyrigh1 C 202 1. Amcncan Concttte ln~litute.
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is obtai ned from the copyright pl\)j)rictol'$.

1
2 MULTI-COMPONENT EPOXY ADHESIVE FOR BONDING TO CONCRETE-SPECIFICATION (ACI SPEC-548.1 3-21)
SECTION 3-BONDING FRESH CONCRETE TO
HARDENED CONCRETE, p. 5
3.1- General, p. 5
3.2- Products, p. 5
3.3- txecution, p. 5
NOTES TO SPECIFIER (nonmandatory), p. 6
Genera l notes, p. 6
Foreword to Checklists, p. 6
SECTION 1-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
1.1- Scope
1.1.1 This SpcciJication covers the uscofmulti-componcnt
epoxy adhesives, meeting the requirements of ASTM C88 I/
C88 1M for bonding to hardened concrete as specified in
2.1. 1 and 3.I.I.
1.1.2 This Specification is incorporated by Contract Docu-
ments and provides requirements for the Contractor.
1. 1.3 This Specification governs for construction w ithin its
scope, except project-specific Contract Documents govern if
there is a confl ict.
1. I .4 This Specification governs if there is a conflict with
reference material and testing standards.
1.1,5 Contractor is permitted to submit written altema-
tives to any provision in this Specification for consideration.
l.1.6 Do not use this Specification in conjunction with
ACI 30 I or ACI 350.5 unless Contract Documents state that
this Specification governs for \1/ork covered by 1.1. 1.
1.1.7 Ignore provisions of this Specification that are not
applicable to the \1/ork.
J. 1.8 Values in this Specification are stated in inch-pound
units. A companion specification in S I tmits is a lso available.
J. 1.9 The Notes to Specifier are not pat1 of this
Specification.
1.2-lnterpretation
1.2.1 Unless otherwise explicitly stated, tbis Specification
shall be interpreted using the following principles.
J.2. 1. 1 Interpret this Specification consistent with the
plain meaning of the words and terms used.
1.2. 1.2 Definitions provided in this Specification govern
over the definitions of the same or similar words or terms
found elsewhere.
1.2. 1.3 Whenever possible, interpret this Specification so
that its provisions arc in harmony and do not conflict.
1.2. 1.4 Headings arc part of tbis Specification and arc
intended to identify the scope of the provisions or sections
that follow. Tf tl1cre is a dilTcrcncc in meaning or implication
bccwccn the text of a provision and a heading, the ,neaning
in the text governs.
1.2.J.5 Where a provision of this Specification involves
two or more items, conditions, requirements, or events
connected by the conjunctions "and" or "or," interpret the
conj unction as follows:
"and'' indicates that all the connected items, conditions,
requirements, or events apply.
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"or" indicates that the connected items, conditions,
requirements, or events apply singularly.
l.2. 1.6 The use of the verbs "may" or "wi ll" indicates
that the Specification provision is for infonnation to the
Contractor.
l.2.J. 7 The phrase "as indicated in Contract Documents"
means the Specifier included the provision requirements in
the Contract Documents.
1.2. 1.8 The phrase ''tmless otherwise specified" means
the Specifier may have included an alternative to the default
requirement in the Contract Documents.
1.2. 1.9 The phrase •'if specified" means the SpeciJier may
have include-0 a requirement in the Contract Documents for
which there is no default requirement in this Specification.
.l.2. J.10 Un less 01hcrwisc stated, the inch-pound system
of units is applicable to combined standards referenced in
this Specification.
1.3-Definitions
The following definitions shall govern in this Specification.
accepted-<letenn ined by rhe Architect/Engineer to be in
compliance with Contract Documents.
Architect/Engineer- the architect, engineer, architec-
tural firm, or engineering firm issuing Contract Documents
or administering rhe Work under Contract Documents,
or hoth.
bond interface-the layer of adhesive that connects two
adjacent materials.
continuous metering a nd mixing-the process of
providing accurately measured quantities of ingredients into
a blending chamber and, as a result, generating a stream of
properly blended product at the ex it.
Contract Documents-set of documents that form the
basis of a contractual relationship between an Owner and
constructor or design-builder. These documents are defined
by the contractual agreement, and contain contract fom1s,
contraction condjtions, specifications, drawings, addenda,
and contract changes.
Contractor- the person, firm, or entity under contract for
constn1ction of \\lork.
drawings- graphic representations that detail require-
ments for Work and may include written notes.
ep oxy- a thennosetting polymer that is the reaction
product of epoxy resin and a hardener.
fresh concrete-concrete that possesses enough of its
original workabi lity so that it can be placed and consolidated
by the i11tendcd mctho<ls.
Owner- the corporation, association, partocrsbip,
individual, public body, or authority for whom Work
is consrructcd.
specifications-the written document that details require-
ments for the \1/ork.
sub mit-provide to Architect/Engineer for review.
sub mitta l-<locument or materia l provided 10 Architect/
Engineer for review and acceptance.
Work- the entire construction or separately identifi -
able parts thereof required to be furn ished under Contract
Documents.
MULTI-COMPONENT EPOXY ADHESIVE FOR BONDING TO CONCRETE-SPECIFICATION (ACI SPEC-548.13-21)
1.4-Referenced standards
Standards cited in this Specification are listed by name
and designation, including year.
1.4.1 ASTM l11ter11atio11al
ASTM C42/C42M- I 8a- Standard Test Method for
Obtaining and Testing Drilled Cores and Sawed Beams of
Concrete
ASTM C881/C88 1M-20-Standard Specification for
Epoxy-Resin-Base Bonding Systems for Concrete
ASTM Cl 583/C I 583M-20- Standard Test Method for
Tensile Strength of Concrete Surfaces and the Bond Strength
or Tcllsi lc Strength of Concrete Repair and Overlay Mate-
rials by Direct Tension (Pull -off IVlethod)
ASTM 04263-83(20 18)- Standard Test Method for Indi-
cating Moisture in Concrete by the Plastic Sbect Method
ASTM D454 1-1 7-Standard Test l\1ethod for Pull-Off
Strength of Coatings Using Portable Adhesion Testers
ASTM 04580/ D4580M-l2(2018)-Standard Practice
for Measuring Delaminations in Concrete Bridge Decks
by Sounding
1.4.2 The Society for Protective Coatings
SSPC SP 1-1982(2004)-Surface Preparation Specifica-
tion No. I, Solvent Cleaning
SSPC SP 2- 1982(2004)-Surface Preparation Specifica-
tion No. 2, Hand Tool Cleaning
SSPC SP 3-1982(2004)-Surface Preparation Specifica-
tion No. 3, Power Tool Cleaning
SSPC SP 6/NACE No. 3-2006-Surface Preparation
Specification No. 6, Commercial Blast Cleaning
1.5-Submittals
1.5.1 Certifications-Submit manufacturer's ce rtification
verifying conformance to material s pecifications and that
adhesive used is compatible with materials to be bonded.
1.5.2 App/icatio11 co,111-0/--Submit mixing and app lica-
tion procedures for acceptance prior to use.
1.5.3 Data- Submit technica l data sheets and safety
data sheets.
l.5.4 Additional tes/i11g- Submit additional test results
if specified.
1.6-Delivery, storage, and handling
1.6.1 Delivery of materials- Accept only materials deliv-
ered in sealed containers with labels legible and intact.
1.6.2 labeling-Only use materials that arc marked with
the following infonnation:
a) Name of maoufacturcr
b) Manufacturer's product identification
c) Manufacturer's instructions for mixing
d) \Varniog for handling and toxicity
e) Expiration date and lot number
1.6.3 Storage of materials--Srore materials at tempera-
ture.s between 40 and 100°F, unless otherwise specified.
1.6.4 fla11dli11g of material~~Handle materials to avoid
breaking comainer seals and in accordance with manufac-
tu.-er's recommendations.
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3
1.7-Project conditions
l.7.1 Environmental requiremenrs-Comply with manu-
factllrer's written insh11ctions regarding environmenta l
conditions under which the adhesive s hall be applied.
1.8-Control of adhesive mixture
1.8. I Metering accuracy-Use equipment or tools able
to establ ish and maintain a ratio of the components within
the tolerance specifi ed by the m,mufacturer of the multi-
component epoxy adhesive over the full range of operating
pressures and temperatures. lfthe manufacturer oftl1e epoxy
adhesive does not specify a tolerance for the mixture ratio,
maintain a mixture ratio within ±5% of the nominal mixture
ratio specified by the manufacturer of the epoxy adhesive.
1.8.2 Qualification test for metering accuracy
1.8.2.1 If continuous metering and mixing is used, test
the metering accuracy o f equipment before the start of rbe
Work to demonstrate that the pump is capable of maintaining
the ratio within the. tolerances required in 1.8. 1. Follow the
written instructions of the continuous metering and mix ing
equ ipment manufacturer to verify accuracy. If no written
instructions exist. use the following steps to verify accuracy:
1.8.2.l(a) The device used to measure metering accuracy
shall be capable of controlling the discharge pressure o f each
o f the components separately as they are simultaneously
discharged into separate containers.
l.8.2.l (b) Conduct test by discharging both adhesive
components simultaneously into separate conta iners while
maintaining discharge presstu-e on both components at antic-
ipated discharge pressure.
l.8.2.1.c Discharge each component into separate gradu-
ated conta iners or into containers that can be weighed . At
least 7 fl oz. o f the larger volume component is required for
an adequate ratio determination. If the ratio detem1ination is
made by mass, determine the volumetric ratio by multiplying
the mass ratio by the inverse of the ratio of the specific gravi-
ties of the components, as provided by the epoxy adhesive
manufactw·er.
l .8.2.2 If a prepackaged cartridge system is used, only use
a dispensing tool approved by the multi-component epoxy
adhesive manufac.turer.
SECTION 2-BONDING HARDENED CONCRETE,
STEEL, AND OTHER MATERIALS TO
HARDENED CONCRETE
2.1-General
2.1.1 Scope
2 .1.J.I This Section covers the bonding of bardened
concrete, steel, and other materials as covered in Section 2.3
to hardened concrete with a multi-component epoxy adhe-
sive as indicated in Contract Documents. This Section does
not apply to anchoring dowels or adhesively bonded anchors
in concrete. This Section does 110 1 apply to bonding carbon
or g lass fabric or composites to concrete.
4 MULTI-COMPONENT EPOXY ADHESIVE FOR BONDING TO CONCRETE- SPECIFICATION (ACI SPEC-548.13-21)
2.2-Products
2.2.1 Marerials
2.2.1. l Multi-compo11e11t epoxy adltesive- Use
ASTM C881/C88 I M Type IV for load-bearing applications
or Type l for non-load-bearing applications, unless other-
wise specified. C uring temperature requirements (Class)
s hall be determined by the Supplier and Contractor based on
specific project conditions. Use Grade 2 (medium viscosity)
or Grade 3 (non-sag) for bonding horizontal or vertical
mating s urfaces. Use Gr-Jde 3 for overhead and for non-
mat ing surfaces.
2.2.l.2 Fillers- Fil lers may be used to increase the
viscosity of the uncured multi-component epoxy adhesive or
provide additional inert mass to fill voids between the bonded
substrates will1out generating excess heat. unless otherwise
specified. Documentation verifying that the mixture of the
multi-component epoxy adhesive, combined with the speci-
fied amount of fi ller, meets perfonnance requirements sha.11
be provided in certifications s ubm itted in Section 1.5. I,
2.3-Execution
2.3. l Preparation
2.3.1. t Prepararion ofconcrere sw:faces
2.3.1. l(a) Concrete surfaces to which epoxies are to be
applied shall be newly prepared concrete free of loose mate-
rials. Prepare surfaces to the surface profi le indicated in
Contract Documents. Prepare the surfaces by blast-cleaning,
unless otherwise specified.
2.3.1.l(b) Control exposure to si lica and concrete dust in
accordance w ith appl icable regulations. Common methods
to reduce exposure to dust include use of water on the surface
during preparation, dust fi lters on equipment, exhaust venti-
lation, and personal protective equipment
2.3.l . I (c) Remove and dispose of residue material
resulting from surface. preparation in accordance with appli-
cable regulations,
2.3. 1.2 Preparation ofcarbon steel surfaces
2.3. l.2(a) Clean smfaces according to SS PC SP l, SSPC
SP 2, and SSPC SP 3, as necessary to prepare the surface for
blasl-cleaning,
2.3.1.2(b) B last-cle,m carbon steel surfaces in accor-
dance with SSPC SP 6/NACE No. 3 to provide a surface
condition as specified, Use sand abrasive media, unless
otl1erwise specifled.
2.3. 1.2(c) Remove blast-cleaning residue with compressed
air from an oil- and water-free compressed air source or
by vacuuming.
2.3. 1.3 Preparation ofgalvanized steel su~faces
2.3.l.3(a) Scrub galvanized steel surfaces thoroughly in
accordance with SSPC SP I.
2.3.l.3(b) For ga lvanized steel s urfaces showing signs of
subsurface corrosion, blast-clean as specifi ed in 2.3. 1.2 for
carbon steel.
2.3.1.4 Prepara1io11 ofalu111i11u111 su~faces
2.3.1.4(a) Scrub aluminum surfaces thoroughly with a
non-chlorinated cleaner and then etch with proprietary chro-
mate treatment in accordance with manufacturer's appl ica-
tion instructions and safety wamings.
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2.3. t .4(b) A ftcr etching, wash surface with distilled water
and then dry.
2.3. t .S Preparation ()(copper and copper-alloy .twjaces
2.3. t.S(a) Blast-clean copper and copper-alloy surfaces as
specified in 2.3 .1.2 for carbon steel.
2.3.1.S(b) Where blast-cleaning is not practical, clean the
copper or copper-alloy surfaces w ith aqueous household
ammonia, wash surfaces with distilled water, and then dry.
2.3.t .6 Preparation of wood swfaces
2.3.1.6(a) Clean wood s urfaces of all visible loose or
foreign pa,ticles or contaminants by sanding. Remove
sanding or fi lling dust by wiping with an alcohol-soaked rag,
or clean with oil-and-water-free compressed air.
2.3.2 f11spec1io11 and testing
2.3.2. 1 bifpection ofconcrere swfaces
2.3.2. l (a) Inspect al l concrete surfac.e s prior to applica-
tion of epoxy adhesive. Sttrfaces shall be free of deleterious
materials, including laitance, curing compounds, dust, dirt,
oi I. and other material that may prevent bonding. l\llaterials
resulting from surface prepar;1tion sha ll be removed.
2.3.2.t(b) At lhe time of installation, s urface temperature
of the concrete shall be w ithin tbe limits recommended by
the adhesive manufacturer. Additionally, for ASTM C881 /
C88 I M Class C multi-component epoxy adhesives, the
s urface temperature shall be at leas t 60° F; for ASTM C88 I/
C881M Class B multi-compoocm epoxy adhesives shall be
al least 40°F; and for ASTM C881 /C881M Class A multi-
component epoxy adhesives shal l be at least the minimum
temperature as listed in the adhesive manufacturer's written
instructions.
2.3.2.t(c) Evaluate moisrure content of concrete in accor-
dance with ASTM D4263 with the following exceptions:
a 4 ft by 4 ft polyethylene sheet shall be used instead of
the 18 in. x 18 in. sheet specified; and allow the polyeth-
ylene sheet to remain in place for the cure time of the epoxy
adhesive as reported by the manufacturer for the anticipated
surface temperature instead o f the 16 hours specified. Do
not apply epoxy adhesive until the test results indicate the
absence of moisture.
2.3.2.2 !11spectio11 ofmetal surfaces
2.3.2.2(a) h1sJ)ect all metal surfaces prior to application
o f epoxy adhesive. Metal s urfaces shall be dry and free of
loose material.
2.3.2.2(b) Ac the time of installation, s urface temperature
of the metal shall be w ithin the limits as listed in the adhe-
s ive manufacturer's written instn1ctions.
2.3.2.3 Inspection of wood swfaces
2.3.2.3(a) Inspect all wood surfac.e s prior to application of
epoxy adhesive. \Vood stufaces shall be free of loose mate-
rial. Moisture content of the wood shall be within limits
recommended by tile adhesive manufacturer when measured
will, a pin-type wood moisture meter.
2.3.2.3(b) At the time of installation, temperature of the
wood shall be within the limits as listed in ,he adhesive
111anufacturer's written instructions.
2.3.2.4 Testing ofconcrete and metal s111jhces
2.3.2.4(a) Concrete surfaces shall have ao average pulloff
strength of at least 250 psi based on three tests at each loca-
MULTI-COMPONENT EPOXY ADHESIVE FOR BONDING TO CONCRETE-SPECIFICATION (ACI SPEC-548.13-21)
tion when tested in accordance with ASTM C 1583/C 1583M.
Test locations. as indicated in the Contract Documents, shall
represent no greater than 500 yd2 of prepared s urface.
2.3.2.4(b) If specified, metal surfaces shall be tested in
accordance with ASTM 04541 for adhesion with the multi-
component epoxy adhesive at the anticipated environmental
condition during application.
2.3.3 Adhesive mixtures
2.3.3.1 Condition epoxy components to a temperature consis-
tent with the adhesive manufacturer's written instructions.
2.3.3.2 Mix epoxy components in accordance with the
adhesive manufacturer's written instructions.
2.3.4 Adhesive application
2.3.4.1 Apply epoxy adhesive to concrete swface by
brush, roller. broom, squeegee. or spray equipment. Apply
epoxy adhesive at a thickness sufficient to fill, with s light
excess, the gap between the s ubstrate and the element to
be bonded. Do not exceed tbe thickness requirements in
the adhesive manufacturer's written instructions. Protect
concrete surfaces against spillage beyond limits of surface
receiving adhesive.
2.3.4.2 Fasten or s hore elements to be bonded when move-
ment is likely to occur, such as elements on sloping, vertic.al,
or ovcrhe3d positions. Shoring and bracing elements sha ll be
instal led to prevent deflections that may cause the elements
to dcbond wben rcruo,•ed.
2.3.4.3 Position clements to be bonded within tbe working
time o f the epoxy adhesive as recomme.nded by the manu-
facturer. If epoxy compound cures to the extent of losing its
tack before c lements are in contact with the adhesive, follow
the adhesive manufacturer 's recommendations with respect
10 removing or slightly abrading the first coat and applying
a second coat.
2.3.4.4 Do not disturb elements being bonded until the
adhesive has cured in accordance with the adhesive manufac-
turer's written instructions for the e nvironmental conditions.
2.3.5 Clea1111p
2.3.5.1 Remove any epoxy adhesive applied or s pilled
beyond desired areas. Perfonn cleanup with material desig-
nated by adhesive manufacturer.
2.3.5.2 Unused materials shall be disposed in accordance with
manufacturer's recommendations and applicable regulations.
2.3.6 Q11a/ity ass11rance testing
2.3.6.1 Bond to existing concrete shall be evaluated after
the multi-component epoxy adhesive has cured in accor-
dance witb the adhesive manufacturer s written instructions
for the environmental conditions.
2.3.6.2 Testing for adequate bonding shall be by c-o ring
or pulloff testing, as indicated in Contract Documents.
Adhesion testing shall be performed in accordance with
1\STM Cl 583iCI 583M . Coring testing s hall be performed
in accordance with ASTl\1 C42/C42M and core drill shall
penetrate at least I in. beyond bond interface. Core diameter
s hall be at least 4 in. nominal d iameter and length of cores
s hall be twice the core diameter, unless otherwise specified.
2.3.6.3 Further testing, ifre<1uired, wil l be determined by
Architect/Engineer.
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5
SECTION 3-BONDING FRESH CONCRETE TO
HARDENED CONCRETE
3.1-General
3.1.1 Scope
3.1.1.1 This Section covers the bonding of fresh concrete
to hardened concrete with a multi-<:omponent epoxy adhe-
sive as indicated in Contract Documents.
3.2-Products
3.2. 1 Materials
3.2.1. I M11ili-compo11ent epoxy adhesive--Usc ASTM
C88 I/C88 IM Type O for non-load-bearing or Type V for
load-bcariogapplications. unless otherwise specified. Curing
temperature rcquii-cmeots (Class) and viscosity (Grade) sha ll
be determined by Suppl ier and Comractor based on specific
project conditions.
3.2.l.2 Fresh co11cre1e--As indicated in Contract Documents.
3.2.1.3 Fillers- Fillers may be used to increase the
viscosity of the uncured multi-component epoxy adhesive,
unless otherwise specified. Documentation verifying that the
mixture of the multi-component epoxy adhesive, combined
with the specified amount of fi ller, meets perfonnance
requirements shall be provided in certifications submitted in
Section 1.5. 1.
3.3-Execution
3.3.1 Preparalio11
3.3.1.1 Preparation ofconcrete surfaces
3.3.1.l (a) Concrete surfaces to which epoxies are to be
applied shall be newly prepared concrete free of loose mate-
ria ls. Prepare surfaces to the s urface profi le indicated in
Contract Documents. Prepare the surfaces by blast-cleaning,
unless otherwise specified.
3.3.1.1 (b) Contro l exposure to silica and concrete dust in
accordance with applicable regulations. Common methods
to reduce exposure to dust include use of water on the smface
during preparation, dust filters on e<Juipment, exhaust venti-
lation, and personal protective equipment.
3.3.2 l11spectio11
3 .3.2.1 lnspect concrete s urfaces prior to application of
adhesive. Surfaces shal l be free of deleterious materials,
including laiLance, curing compounds, dust, dirt, oil, and
other material that may prevent bonding. Materials resulting
from surface preparation shall be removed .
3.3.2.2 Concrete surfaces shall have a moisture content
not cxc.ccding satura ted surface-dry condition.
3 .3.2.3 At the time of insta llation, surface temperature
of the concrete s ball be within the limits recommended by
the adhesive manufacturer. Addi tionally, for ASTM C88 1/
C88 I M Class C multi-component epoxy adhesives, the
surface temperature shall be at least 60°F; for ASTM C88 I/
C88 IM Class B multi-component epoxy adhesives shall be
at least 40°F; and for ASTM C881 /C88 IM Class A multi-
componem epoxy adhesives shall be at least the minimum
temperature allowed by the adhesive manufacturer or
minimum te mperantre for placement of fresh concrete,
whichever is higher.
6 MULTI-COMPONENT EPOXY ADHESIVE FOR BONDING TO CONCRETE- SPECIFICATION (ACI SPEC-548.13-21)
3.3.2.4 Concrete su,faces shall have a pulloff strength of at
least 250 psi based on the average of three rests at each loca-
tion when tested in accordance with ASTM C 1583/C 1583M.
Test locations, as indicated in Contract Documents, shall
represent no greater than 500 yd 2 of pre1>ared surface.
3.3.3 Adhesive m ixtures
3.3.3.l Condition epoxy compo nents to a temperan ire
consistent with adhesive manufacturer's written instructions.
3.3.3.2 Mix epoxy components in accordance with adhe-
sive manufacturer ?s written instructions.
3.3.4 Adhesive application and concrete placeme111
3.3.4.1 Do not apply adhesive if ambient temperature and
hardened concrete temperature are not within the adhesive
manufacnirer's allowable range. Placement of fresh concrete
s hall confo1111 to ambient temperature requirements as indi-
cated in Contn1ct Documents.
3.3.4.2 Apply a(U1esive to concrete su1face by brush,
ro ller, broom, squeegee, or spray equipment. Apply adhesive
at a thickness recomme□ded by manufacturer.
3.3.4.3 Place fres h concrete while adhesive is still tacky. lf
the adhesive cures to the extent oflosing its tack before fresh
concrete is placed, remove or abrade first coat and apply a
second coat in accordance with the adhesive manufacturer's
wrilten instructions.
3.3.4.4 Consolidate fresh concrete as ind icated in
Contract Documents.
3.3.4.S Upon completion of finishing operations, cure
concrete as indicated in Contract Doeumcnrs.
3.3.S Cleanup
3.3.S. I Protect concrete s urfaces beyond limits of surface
receiving adhesive against spillage.
3.3.S.2 Remove any adhesive applied or spilled beyond
desired areas. Perform cleanup with material designated by
adhesive manufacturer.
3.3.5.3 Unused materials shall be disposed in accor-
dance with manufacturer's recommendations and applicable
regulations.
3.3.6 Quality assurance leSiing
3.3.6.1 Bond of fresh concrete to existing concrete will
be evaluated after the fresh concrete has cured for at least
28 days.
3.3.6.2 The evaluation will be perfo1111ed by som1ding in
accordance with ASTM D4580/ D4580M, unless otherwise
specified .
3.3.6.3 Detection of a hol low sound or other indication of
delamination in any area shalI be reason to suspect inadequate
bonding. Contractor s hall core s uspected area, as requested
by Architect/Engineer, to detennine bonding adequacy.
3.3.6.4 Coring shal l be pe1formed in accordance with
ASTM C42/C42M and s hall penetrate at least I in. into
the existing concrete. Core diameter sha ll be at least 4 in.
nominal diameter, un less otherwise specified. Length of
cores shall be twice the core diameter, or twice the thickness
of new concrete.
3.3.6.5 Cores will be visually inspected and further testing,
if required, wil l be determined by Architect/Engi□eer.
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NOTES TO SPECIFIER (NON MANDATORY)
General notes
GI. ACJ Specification 548.13 is to be used by reference
in the Project Specification. Do not copy individual sections,
parts, articles, or paragn1phs into the Project Specific.1-
tioo because wking them out of context may change their
me-amng.
G2 . lf Sections or Parts of AC! Specifi cation 548.13 are
copied into the Project Specification or any other document.
do not refer to them as an ACl Specification.
G3. A statement s uch as the following will serve to make
ACI Specification 548. J3 a part o f the Projec t Specification:
"Work on (Project Title) shall conJorm to all require-
ments o f AC! Specification 548.13, "Specification for
Using Multi-Component Epoxy Adhesive for Bonding to
Concrete," publ ished by the American Concrete lnstitutc,
Farmington Hills, Micbigan. except as modified by these
Contract Documents.'·
G4. Each technical section of ACI Specification 548. 13 is
wri tten in the three-part section format of the Construction
Specifications lnstin,te. as adapted for ACI requi remems.
The language is imperative and terse.
GS. ff AC I Specification 548.13 is referenced in Contract
Documents along with another ACI specification that
contains overlapping provisions, identify which require-
ments are in conflict and state in the Contract Documents
which requirements control.
Foreword to Checklists
Ft. This Foreword is included for explanato1y pltrposes
only; it does not fonu a pan of ACI Specification 548.13.
F2. ACI Specification 548. 13 may be referenced by
the Specifier in the Project Specification for any building
project, together with supplementary requirements for the
specific project. Responsibi Iities for project participants
must be defined in the Project Specification. ACI Specifica-
tion 548.13 cannot and does not address responsibilities for
any project partic ipant other than the Contractor.
F3. C hecklists do not fon11 a part of AC! Specification
548. 13. Checklists assist the Specifier in se lecting and speci-
fying project re(Juirements in the Project Specification.
F4. The l'vlandatory Re<1uire111ents Checklist indicates
work requirements regarding specific qualities, procedures,
materials, and performance criteria tJ1at are not defined in
ACI Specification 548.13. The Specifier must include these
requirements in tbc Project Specification.
FS. The Optional Require,nents Checklist identifies
Specifier alte111atives or additions. The checklists identify
the sections, parts, and articles of AC! Specification 548. 13
and the action required or avai lable 10 the Specifier. Tbe
Specifier should review each of the items in the checkli st
and make adjustmenrs to the needs of a particular project by
including those selected alternatives or additions as manda-
tory requirements in the Project Specification.
F6. Ciled references- Documents and pub Iicarions that
are referenced in the checklists of ACI Specification 548. 13
are listed below. These re ferences provide guidance to the
MULTI-COMPONENT EPOXY ADH ESIVE FOR BONDING TO CONCRETE- SPECIFICATION (ACI SPEC-548.13-21) 7

Specifier and are not considered to be part of AC! Specifica-
tion 548. 13.
ASTM /111ernatio1u,/
ASTM 04258-05(20 I ?}--Standard Practice for Surface
Cleaning Concrete for Coating
ASTM 0 4259-18- Standard Practice tor Preparation of
Concrete by Abrasion Prior to Coating Application
ln1er11atio11al Concrete Repair Institute
ICRI 3 10.2R-2013-Selecting and Specifying Concrete
Surface Preparation for Sealers, Coatings, Polymer Over-
lays, and Concrete Repair
The Society for Protecrive Coarings
SSPC VIS 1-2002-Guide and Reference Photographs for
Steel Surfaces Prepared by Dry Abrasive Blast Cleaning

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS CHECKLIST

Part/Ar ticle N Ol('jj lO Sp~cificr

2.1.1.1 Indicate in Contract Documents where a multi-com1>0ncnt adhesive is required for bonding concrete. steel, and other materials to
hardened concrete.
2.3.J.l(a) Specify the required concrete surface profile as described m ICRI 3 10.2R.
2.3, I .2(b) Specif)' surface condition con-esponding to ASa.2, BSa2. and CSa2 of SSPC VIS I, d epending o n the initial su rface condition of the
steel sutfocc.
2.3.2.4(•) Specify number and frequency of ((.~tiog and minimum strength. If the test re.svlts arc not in failure or the coucre1c but in cohesion of the
epoxy adhesive matcriol used to bond tbe metal 1cs1disc 10 1hc 1es1specimen. or any fnilurc. in adhesjon ofthal epoxy ~dhesive mate.rial, the
ll..'St shall be rc:peated. Repet11ed f!lilun.~ in adhesion, or cohesion in the epoxy adhei;ivc material, indicate improper dc:ming or the concrete,
incorrect adhesiv~. or faulty adhesive application techniques.
2.3.6.2 Specify the method for assessing 1hc adequacy of &he bond 1.x:twecn the bonded components. If pulloff tcsti,,g is used, specify required
pullotf strength. If coring is used, specify number of cores required and pass-foil criteria.
3.1.1.1 Indicate in Contract Documents where a multi-component adhesive is required for bonding other materials to hardened concrete.
3.2.1.2 Specify c-0ncrele requirements.
J_1,1.l (a) Specify the concrete surface profile as described in LCRJ 3 L0.2R.
3.3.2.4 Specify number and frequency of tes1ing and minimum strength. If the test results arc•not in failure of the concrete but in cohesion of the
epoxy adhesive material used m bond the metal test disc to the test specimen. or any failure in adhesion of that epoxy adhesive material, the
test shall be repeated. Repeated failures in adhesion. or cohesion in the epoxy adhesive material, indicate improper cleaning of the concrete,
incorre<:t adhesive. or faulty adhesive application techniques.
3.3.4.1 Specify ambient temperature requirements for concrete l,lacemem.
3.3.4.4 Specify <:-Ont rete consolid!lli()n requirements.
3.3.4.S Sp<..-cify curing rcqui~mcms for co11crece.

OPTIONAL REQUIREMENTS CHECKLIST

Part/Article Notes to Specifiers

I.S.4 Specify additional tes.t results to be submitted,
I .6.3 Spc.cify alcemative range of storage cl."mpcrature.
2.2.1.1 Sp«ify additional or alternative pcrfonnnncc requirements.. acceptable suppl ier.s. or both.
2,2, l.2 Specify if fillers arc not allowed,
2.3.1.l(a) Specify alternate mechods for preparing surfaces, such as in accordance with other methods in ICRI 3 I0.2R, ASTM D425:i. or ASTM 04259.
2.3. l.2(b) Specify if allerna1ive abrai.ive material, such as gri1 or $hot, is required.
2.3.2.4(1>) Spc-eify if 1uct-11I surfaces require adhesion tcstjng and mjnimum adhesive su-cnglh.
2.3.6.2 If coring is used. speci fy alternative core size.. Minimum 4 in. nominal diameter cores are recommended for cesting. Nominal 2 m. cores may
be adequate if they art only used for visual inspec1ion.
3.2.1.1 Specify addilfonal or ahemative perform.111ce requirements. acceptable suppliers, or both.
3.2.1.3 Specify if filler,, an: 111,11 allowod.
3.3.1.l (a) Specify ahcrnatc methods for preparing surfaces. such as in accordance wilh other methods in JCRl 310.2R. ASTM D4258. or ASTM D4259.
3.3.6.2 Specify alternate method to de,ermine delamination such as pulse velocity or impact..echo.
3.3.6,4 Specify alcemative dial'neter of cores lO he obtainOO. t\ l inimum 4 in. nominal dia,neter cores are recorn,oended for testing. Nominal 2 in.
1

cores may be adeq1.1ate if they are only used for visual iospection.

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 • • American Concrete Institute
__,J
OCI Always advancing

As ACI begins its second century of advancing concrete knowledge, its original chartered purpose
remains "to provide a comradeship in finding the best ways to do concrete 1,vork of all kinds and in
spreading knowledge." In keeping with this purpose, ACI supports the following activities:

· Technical co1nrnittees that produce consensus reports, guides, specifications, and codes.

· Spring and fall conventions to facilitate the work of its committees.

· Educational seminars that disseminate reliable information on concrete.

· Certification programs for personnel employed 1,vithin the concrete industry.

Student programs such as scholarships, internships, and competitions.

Sponsoring and co-sponsoring international conferences and symposia.

Formal coordination with several international concrete related societies.

· Periodicals: the AC! Structural Journal, Materials Journal, and Concrete International.

Benefits of membership include a subscription to Concrete International and to an AC! Journal. ACI
members receive discounts of up to 40°/4 on all AC! products and services, including documents, seminars
and convention registration fees.

As a member of ACI, you join thousands of practitioners and professionals worldwide who share
a commitment to 1naintain the highest industry standards for concrete technology, construction,
and practices. In addition, AC! chapters provide opportunities for interaction of professionals and
practitioners at a local level to discuss and share concrete knowledge and fellowship.

American Concrete In stitute

38800 Country Club Drive
Farmington Hills , MI 48331
Phone: +1.248.848.3700
Fax: +1.248.848.3701
www.concrete.org
<aciJ
__, American Concrete Institute
Always odvoncing

38800 Country Club Drive

Farmington Hills, Ml 48331 USA
+1.248.848.3700
www.concrete org

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) is a leading authority and resource

worldwide for the development and distribution of consensus-based
standards and technical resources, educa llonal programs, and certifications
for individuals and o rganizations involved in concrete design, construction.
and materials, who share a commitment to pursuing the best use of concrete.

Individ uals interested in the activities of ACI are encouraged to explore the
ACI website for membership opportunities, committee activities, and a wide
variety of concrete resources. As a volunteer member-driven organ ization,
ACI invites partnerships and welcomes all concrete professionals who wish to
be part of a respected, connected, social g roup that provides an opportu nity
for professional growth, networking and enjoyment.