What is the primary purpose of IS 9162?

To provide a uniform set of laboratory procedures for testing the properties of epoxy resin systems used for floor toppings.

How is the bond strength of the epoxy tested according to this standard?

It uses the 'Slant Shear Method' (Clause 14), where a concrete prism is cast against the epoxy at a 30-degree angle and then tested in compression to measure the shear strength at the bond interface.

Does this standard specify the minimum required strength for an epoxy floor?

No, it only details how to measure the strength. The minimum required values must be specified by the project designer or are found in product-specific standards.

What is 'gel time' and why is it important?

Gel time (Clause 5) is the time taken for the mixed epoxy system to start thickening or gelling. It indicates the working time or 'pot life' available for applying the material after mixing.

IS 9162

: 1979

Methods of Tests for Epoxy Resins, Hardeners and Epoxy Resin Compositions for Floor Topping

CurrentSpecializedTesting MethodBIMMaterials Science · Flooring, Wall Finishing and Roofing

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This standard specifies the methods for testing the physical and chemical properties of epoxy resins, hardeners, and their compositions intended for use as floor toppings. It covers procedures for determining characteristics like viscosity, gel time, compressive strength, and bond strength to a concrete substrate.

Methods of Tests for Epoxy Resins, Hardeners and Epoxy Resin Compositions for Floor Topping

Quick Reference Values

Slant Shear Test Specimen Angle30 degrees from vertical

Standard Temperature for Testing27 ± 2 °C

Standard Relative Humidity for Conditioning65 ± 5 percent

Key Formulas

Compressive Strength = P / A (where P is max load, A is cross-sectional area)

Flexural Strength (Modulus of Rupture) = 3PL / (2bd^2) (for centre-point loading)

Practical Notes

This standard provides the test procedures, not the acceptance criteria. Required performance values (e.g., minimum compressive strength) must be obtained from project specifications or the manufacturer's data sheet.

Epoxy curing is highly sensitive to temperature and humidity. Strict adherence to the conditioning requirements in the standard is crucial for obtaining accurate and comparable test results.

The Slant Shear Test (Clause 14) is a key test to evaluate the quality of the bond between the epoxy topping and the concrete substrate, which is critical for flooring performance.