Muriatic Alternatives?

[Brinskan]

Okay, so I am planning on epoxy coating my floor this weekend. It's a rental garage, so while I am not concerned with it lasting as much for 20 years, I want to do a good job. The garage floor is likely 20 years old but in decent condition aside from some oil spots.

I went and bought some muriatic acid, but after reading a bit about it online I am a tad hesitant to use it. Plus, i would need to go buy a respirator. Is there any alternatives that provide a similar result? I know the nasty stuff always does the best job, but asking before I get down and dirty with the acid.

-BS

 

[ehegwer]

OK, I've never dealt with cleaning a floor before, but I used to be a biochemist, and handled concentrated HCl all the time. Just be safe, work in a well ventilated area, and wear the proper safety gear. Don't get distracted, and keep your focus on the job. Plan out your work, and you should be fine.

 

[PhatTractor]

The muriatic acid is to make the concrete slab more porous, this way the epoxy can lock in better. I would NOT use it for removing old stains as you can do more harm than good. I use the Diedrich Aspir-Solv cleaner, its works great on oil stains and even takes up dried on bubble gum, LOL

http://www.diedrichtechnologies.com/media/tech_data_sheets/Aspir-Solv TSDS.pdf

 

[AlphaGarage]

Also, there are other chemicals that can profile the floor beside muriatic acid. Along with being non-corrosive to your metal cabinets, they have far less fumes and are less toxic, in fact they are non HazMat.

We stock 2 types, a low viscosity formula (like muriatic acid requires neutralizing) and a gel form (can be neutralized with just water), with both a high pressure rinse is recommended to remove all traces of dust and laitance.

 

[BL50]

Try Acid Magic ... it's billed as a muriatic acid replacement and the stuff works great. If you go to the web site be sure to watch the "egg video" ... it's a riot!

http://www.certol.com/AcidMagicHome.aspx