E15M Epoxy Mastic Steel Primer DTM & Concrete Coating | Chemical Resistant | Low Temp 25F

COVERAGE RATE

CURE SCHEDULE

RECOAT TIME

BACK IN-SERVICE SCHEDULE

Regular Cure

Low Temperature Fast Cure

Times may be longer for thickness above 5 dry mils.  For safety and proper product curing, good ventilation is necessary when painting indoors or in confined areas.  Be sure the batch numbers are all the same to provide uniform color.  Epoxy coatings may yellow or darken during application and after final cure.  This will affect the color but will have no effect on the performance of the product.  Heaters that emit carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide can cause the coating to yellow.  For maximum interior gloss and color retention apply one (1) topcoat of PC-270 Polyester Epoxy.  For maximum exterior gloss and color retention apply a topcoat of CT-370 polyurethane.

APPLICATION TEMPERATURE:

45°-120°F with relative humidity below 90%.  When spraying, use a 50% overlapping crosshatch pattern to minimize the occurrence of pinholes.  Do not apply over dew or frost.  The surface should be dry and at least 5°F above the dew point.

Regular cure Low Temperature application down to 45°F (air and surface low temperature during curing process).  Fast Cure formula available for cold weather applying to surfaces down to 38° (needs to remain at this temp or above for at least 1 hour) and then during curing process temperatures further dropping ok to as low as 25°F.

CHEMICAL RESISTANCE, SPLASH & SPILLAGE (spill time for 72 hours contact with surface)

MIXING AND APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

SURFACE PREPARATION

Remove all dirt, grease, oil, soil, chemical contaminants, and other matter before any mechanical preparation.  The surface must be free of any salt contamination.  Prepare and paint only clean surfaces in accordance with Steel Structures Painting Council (SSPC) or National Association of Corrosion Engineers (N.A.C.E.) specifications.

STEEL

Sand Blast – Best  Sand Blast to a “Commercial” (SSPC-SP6) or “Near White” (SSPC-SP10) metal finish.

ower Tool Clean  Follow instructions as outlined in SSPC-SP3 specification.

Hand Cleaning  Follow instructions as outlined in SSPC-SP2 Specification.

Note:  Prime surface the same day.

Galvanized Steel/Aluminum:  Solvent clean per SSPC-SP1 or steam clean.  Sweep blast to achieve a minimum 1 mil profile.  Apply one (1) coat of E15M as a primer at 3-4 mils DFT.

Stainless Steel: 

1. Cleaning (Pre-Blast)

• Degrease the surface using an approved solvent cleaner (e.g., acetone or methyl ethyl ketone).
• Use lint-free cloths or wipes to prevent residue.
• This step prevents oil/grease from being pushed into the substrate during blasting.

2. Equipment Setup

• Media: Use 100 grit aluminum oxide (non-ferrous, angular, high-purity).
• Blasting Equipment: Ensure clean, dry, oil-free air supply.
• Use a Venturi-style nozzle for even blasting (typically size #6 to #8).
• Confirm no prior use of carbon steel grit in the system to prevent cross-contamination.

3. Blasting Procedure

• Blast angle: 60°–90° to the surface.
• Nozzle distance: 6–12 inches from surface.
• Air pressure: 90–110 PSI (regulated).
• Maintain a consistent stroke pattern to ensure even coverage.
• Target a surface profile of 1.0–1.5 mils,

4. Post-Blast Cleaning

• Blow off dust with clean, dry compressed air (no oil or moisture).

Previously Painted Surfaces: Solvent clean per SSPC-SP1 and/or power wash.  Remove loose existing paint by wire brush or other hand tools.  Feather edges.  Make test application to check for compatibility.

Concrete

In all cases of surface preparation, the pH should be checked.  A pH reading of 7.0 to 8.5 is acceptable. Also, a Water Dissipation Test should be made on random areas of the floor to determine if the proper degree of porosity has been achieved.  Before the installation of any Gulf Coat Paint Products, the substrate should be examined for moisture.  Test for moisture vapor transmission using ASTM F-1869 Standard Test Method for Measuring Moisture Vapor Emission Rate of Concrete Subfloor using Anhydrous Calcium Chloride.  The maximum allowable rate is 3 lbs. per 1,000 square feet per 24 hours.  Test for relative humidity in concrete floor slabs using Probes according to ASTM F-2170.  This test measures the presence relative humidity of the slab below the surface.  The maximum relative humidity should be below 80%.

New concrete must be cured at least a minimum of 28 days before applying a coating.  On-grade slabs must have moisture vapor barrier in place.  All laitance, sealers, efflorescence, chemical contaminants, grease, oil and other foreign material must be removed.  The prepared surface must be clean, dry and structurally sound.  Recommend mechanical preparation by means of shot blasting or diamond grinding to achieve a CSP-2 or CSP-3 profile, in accordance with the International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI).  The profile should reflect something similar to a 60-100 grit sandpaper.  If the substrate is not properly prepared and the appropriate profile is not achieved, failure of the product to adhere to the substrate may occur.

Old concrete surfaces must be structurally sound.  Any unsound areas must be repaired prior to proceeding with the resinous installation.  For proper patching and repairing, use CF-615 and/or PC-1000 with graded aggregate.  Remove existing paint and loose concrete by rough sanding, sandblasting, high pressure water cleaning, shot blasting or grinding.  In some cases where plant conditions allow, a stripper may be used to remove excessive build-up of paints or sealers.

Concrete Coating System

The properly sound, cleaned concrete must be primed first with either PC-149, PC-155, or PC-1703 Epoxy Concrete Primer per label instruction.  Two coats of E15M Epoxy at approximately 5-7 mils dry per coat is recommended for light traffic areas.  For heavy forklift and high abrasion areas, CT-352 Polyester Polyurethane Coating at 2-3 mils dry film thickness is recommended as the top coat over one coat of E15M Epoxy.

MIXING INSTRUCTIONS

Stir each component to a uniform consistency, using a slow speed variable speed explosion proof drill with a Jiffy Mixer.   Do not mix by hand.   Improper mixing may result in product failure. For best mixing results and proper blending of parts A and B, recommend a Jiffy Mixer style drill mixer.

Use of an improper drill mixer can result in streaking of the color because the pigment has not been thoroughly blended.  It can also create curing problems if the hardener also called activator (Part B) is not thoroughly blended with the resin (Part A) which can cause some areas on your floor to remain soft and not harden properly.  DO NOT USE A PAINT MIXER.  Many mixing problems described above can be traced back to using a paint mixer..  DO NOT HAND MIX as this approach can also result in the same problems as using a paint mixer.

Make sure any pigment settled to the bottom is incorporated.  Do not vary proportions.  E15M is prepared by mixing 4 parts base (Part A) to 1 part Hardener (Part B) with a power mixer.  E15M may be thinned using our S-74 Solvent or 100% MEK Solvent up to 10% by volume for airless spray and up to 20% by volume for conventional spray.  When rolling, thin 10-20% by volume.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Roller – Use a 3/8” – ½” nap, phenolic core, shed resistant roller cover.  Roll in the same direction always keeping a wet edge.  Do not over roll product.

Brush – Use pure bristle brush.

When spraying, use a 50% overlapping crosshatch pattern to minimize the occurrence of pinholes.  Do not apply to surfaces below 45°F or above 120°F.  Do not apply over dew or frost.  The surface should be dry and at least 5°F above the dew point.

LIMITATIONS:

• Do not apply over frost, wet or damp surfaces or extremely high humidity conditions.
• Do not apply over expansion joints.
• Do not apply if the surface temperature is within 5° of the dew point.
• Partially used containers must be reclosed tightly to prevent moisture in air from reacting with material and forming a tough skin.  Skin can be removed and remaining material used.  Be sure to stir

We strongly recommend to test the coating before recoating or topcoating. This is done by pressing your thumb on the coating in multiple places to ensure a fingerprint impression is not visible. If there is no impression visible, then coating the floor can be done. Note, colder or hotter than 75 degrees can affect the curing time schedule  

CAUTIONS

E15M is flammable.  Keep away from all sources of ignition during mixing, application and cure.  CM-15 Hardener is corrosive.  The Hardener and Base can cause eye and skin burns as well as allergic reactions.  Use goggles, fresh air masks or NIOSH approved respirators, protective skin cream and protective clothing.  This product is sold without warranty as to performance expressed or implied.  Users are urged to make their own tests to determine the suitability for their particular conditions.

SEE MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET FOR FULL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.  FOR PROFESSIONAL AND INDUSTRIAL USE ONLY  KEEP AWAY FROM CHILDREN.  NOT FOR RESIDENTIAL USE NOTICE TO BUYER: DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES AND LIMITATIONS ON OUR LIABILITY We warrant that our products are manufactured to strict quality assurance specifications and that the information supplied by us is accurate to the best of our knowledge. Such information supplied about our products is not a representation or a warranty. It is supplied on the condition that you shall make your own tests to determine the suitability of our product for your particular purpose. Any use or application other than recommended herein is the sole responsibility of the user. Listed physical properties are typical and should not be construed as specifications. NO WARRANTY IS MADE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, REGARDING SUCH OTHER INFORMATION, THE DATA ON WHICH IT IS BASED, OR THE RESULTS YOU WILL OBTAIN FROM ITS USE. N0 WARRANTY IS MADE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, THAT OUR PRODUCT SHALL BE MERCHANTABLE OR THAT OUR PRODUCT SHALL BE FIT FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE. NO WARRANTY IS MADE THAT THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION OR OUR PRODUCT WILL NOT INFRINGE UPON ANY PATENT. We shall have no liability for incidental or consequential damages, direct or indirect. Our liability is limited to the net selling price of our product or the replacement of our product, at our option. Acceptance of delivery of our product means that you have accepted the terms of this warranty whether or not purchase orders or other documents state terms that vary from this warranty. No representative is authorized to make any representation or warranty or assume any other liability on our behalf with any sale of our products. Our products contain chemicals that may CAUSE SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. BEFORE USING, READ THE SAFETY DATA SHEET AND FOLLOW THE PRECAUTIONS TO PREVENT BODILY HARM.

Check out our customer projects using the E15M Primer!

Chilean Warship Installs E650 Non-Skid Deck Coating | Military Grade Mil-PRF-24667B Epoxy

What is E15M epoxy mastic steel primer?

E15M is a two-component, high-solids epoxy mastic primer designed for direct-to-metal (DTM) and concrete applications. It provides exceptional adhesion, corrosion protection, and chemical resistance for industrial and commercial environments.

Can E15M be applied directly over rust?

Yes. E15M is formulated to be self-priming over tightly adherent (tight) rust, making it ideal for maintenance projects where abrasive blasting isn’t possible. It penetrates and bonds to prepared rusty steel surfaces.

What surfaces can E15M be used on?

E15M is designed for:

• Structural steel
• Metal buildings, railings, tanks, and pipelines
• Concrete floors and walls
• Previously painted surfaces (properly prepped)

It works as both a steel primer and concrete coating in industrial environments.

Can E15M be applied on vertical and horizontal surfaces?

Yes. E15M can be applied on both vertical and horizontal surfaces, with vertical applications up to 8 mils dry film thickness (DFT) without sagging.

Is E15M a direct-to-metal (DTM) coating?

Yes. E15M is a high-solids DTM epoxy primer, meaning it can be applied directly to properly prepared steel without requiring a separate primer.

How strong is the adhesion of E15M?

E15M provides exceptional adhesion exceeding 500 psi, helping it bond tightly to steel and concrete while preventing coating failure.

How resistant is E15M to chemicals?

E15M offers excellent resistance to chemicals, including:

• Fuels (gasoline, diesel, jet fuel)
• Oils and solvents
• Acids and alkalis (like sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide)

It is suitable for spill, splash, and short-term immersion exposure in harsh environments.

Can E15M be used in industrial or corrosive environments?

Yes. E15M is widely used in:

• Wastewater treatment plants
• Chemical processing facilities
• Refineries and power plants
• Marine and industrial structures

It helps prevent corrosion, rust undercutting, and coating breakdown in aggressive environments.

Does E15M help stop rust from spreading?

Yes. E15M forms a tight, low-permeability film that protects steel from moisture and oxygen, helping prevent further corrosion and rust creep.

Can E15M be used as a topcoat or only a primer?

E15M can be used as:

• A standalone coating (topcoat) for protection
• A primer under epoxy, polyurethane, vinyl, or acrylic systems

For severe chemical exposure, a compatible epoxy topcoat is recommended.

What is the coverage rate of E15M?

E15M typically covers 188–263 sq. ft. per gallon at recommended thickness (5–7 mils DFT).

For additional assistance confirming you have the right quantity for YOUR project reach out to us at 630-675-4509 or [email protected].

What application methods can be used?

E15M can be applied using:

• Brush
• Roller
• Airless or conventional spray

This makes it versatile for both field and shop applications. For additional application assistance reach out to us at 630-675-4509 or [email protected].

Can E15M be applied in cold temperatures?

Yes. E15M offers:

• Standard application down to 45°F
• Fast-cure version usable in temperatures as low as 25°F

This makes it ideal for cold-weather coating projects.

How durable is E15M against impact and abrasion?

E15M provides:

• Excellent impact resistance (90 in-lb)
• High abrasion resistance (very low wear loss)

It performs well in high-traffic and industrial wear environments.

What makes E15M different from standard epoxy primers?

E15M stands out because it:

• Bonds to tight rust without blasting
• Offers high chemical resistance
• Works on steel and concrete
• Applies to vertical & horizontal surfaces
• Provides very high adhesion strength

This makes it a true industrial-grade epoxy mastic, not just a basic primer.

Where is E15M most commonly used?

Typical applications include:

• Steel tanks, bridges, and railings
• Pipelines and structural steel
• Industrial plants and warehouses
• Marine and coastal environments

It’s ideal anywhere corrosion protection + chemical resistance are critica