Efflorescence Problem

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drfeelgood
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Joined: Mon Apr 02, 2012 7:04 am

Efflorescence Problem

Post by drfeelgood »

Hi,

I'm using phosphoric acid to clean cement off clay pavers. The acid is 85% proof and I'm neutralizing it with sodium bicarbonate before I wash it off. But I'm finding the bicarb leaves a film of white efflorescence. I've checked that I'm using the correct amount, as the ph in the test mix is 7. I've tried scrubbing it off with a stiff bristled brush then hosing it off, but it comes back. It's like it's mixing with something in the clay and this is causing a chemical reaction.

Can I add something to the mix to overcome this problem, or is there something I can do after, that will eradicate the efflorescence?

Thanks in advance.
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