BES Surface Deactivator – The Smart Choice for Exposed Aggregate Concrete
What is BES Surface Deactivator?
BES Surface Deactivator (Model BES-D03) is a water‑based chemical surface retarder designed specifically for exposed aggregate concrete finishes. It is topically applied to freshly placed concrete to selectively delay the hydration of cement paste on the surface, allowing the underlying concrete to cure normally while the surface layer remains washable.
Once the concrete has cured, the retarded surface paste is easily removed by high‑pressure water washing, revealing the natural color and texture of the aggregate beneath.
Product Composition
BES Surface Deactivator is formulated with the following main ingredients【from MSDS】:
| Component | Content (%) | CAS No. |
| Acrylate polymer emulsion | 35 | 70563-43-8 |
| Water | 40 | 7732-18-5 |
| Tartaric acid | 10 | 87-69-4 |
| Citric acid | 15 | 77-92-9 |
The product is a light blue liquid emulsion with a slight odor, a pH of 3.0–4.0, and a solid content of 40±1%. It has a viscosity of 500–5000 mPa·s (NDJ‑1, No.3, 30rpm) and an average particle size of 200–400 nm.【from MSDS】
Key Advantages
Benefit：Unlike sugar‑based retarders, BES Surface Deactivator eliminates the need for plastic or wet burlap covering, simplifying the process and reducing material waste.
Benefit：Forms a polymeric film that acts as a water retention barrier, protecting fresh concrete from light rain and reducing moisture loss.
Benefit：Color‑coded formulation ensures uniform coverage, delivering consistent aggregate exposure across the entire surface.
Benefit：Provides a longer working window before surface paste removal, allowing the underlying concrete to harden properly and lock in the aggregate.
Benefit：Classified as non‑dangerous goods – safe and easy for shipping and customs clearance.【from MSDS】
Applications
BES Surface Deactivator is ideal for producing exposed aggregate finishes on:
Gravel Concrete
Washed Stone / Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Application Method & Dosage
Pour and finish the concrete slab as usual. Ensure the surface is level and free of standing water.
Once the free water has evaporated from the surface, spray‑apply BES Surface Deactivator evenly using a low‑pressure sprayer or garden‑type sprayer.
Recommended coverage rate: approximately 250 ml per square meter (or 200–300 g/m² depending on the desired exposure depth).
No plastic covering is required. Allow the concrete to cure for 8–24 hours (depending on temperature and desired exposure depth).
Use a pressure washer to remove the retarded surface paste, revealing the aggregate.
Allow the exposed aggregate surface to cure fully before opening to traffic.
Important Notes
Summary
BES Surface Deactivator offers contractors and architects a reliable, efficient solution for creating beautiful exposed aggregate concrete finishes. With its water‑based, no‑covering‑required formula, controlled exposure depth, and easy spray‑on application, it delivers consistent, high‑quality results every time – while saving time, labor, and material costs.