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Frequently Asked Questions
Cement & Concrete
Technology Home > FAQs> Oil
Q:Does penetration and saturation of concrete by
machine lubricating oil cause concrete deterioration and strength
loss?
A:Lubricating oils do not harm concrete
unless they contain vegetable or fatty oils, which can cause slow
disintegration. However, concrete exposed to petroleum oil should
be designed to be impervious to prevent penetration of oil. Surface
treatments are generally used. PCA's 36-page report, Effects
of Substances and Guide to Protective Treatments, IS001,
is a good reference on this topic, and suggests a number of possible
protective coatings.
Removing oil stains: Because lubricating or petroleum
oils penetrate concrete surfaces
easily, stains require immediate attention. If the oil has not been
fully absorbed, the excess should be soaked up with an absorbent
material such as a paper towel or cloth. Wiping should be avoided
as it spreads the stain and drives the oil into the concrete. The
spot should be covered with a dry, powdered, absorbent material
(such as hydrated lime, fuller's earth, calcium carbonate, portland
cement, or fly ash) and after a day swept up. This treatment continues
until no more oil is absorbed by the powder. If a light stain remains,
cleaner containing mild solvents such as terpene hydrocarbons and
glycol ethers can be applied. For severe staining, paint stripping
and tar removal products containing xylene and methylene chloride
may be needed. The mildest cleaning agent that still gives satisfactory
results should always be used.
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