Elevate your concrete surfaces with Ten Second Color™ (TSC) and Active Elements Speed Color (AE), the ultimate solution for achieving stunning, professional-grade finishes effortlessly. These penetrating dyes are specifically designed to transform concrete and cementitious materials into beautiful, mottled works of art, imitating the coveted look of traditional acid stains—without the tedious wait times.
The magic lies in its simplicity; mix the required amount of acetone with the dye and apply it directly to your surface. Within moments, your dull concrete will come alive with rich, translucent colors. Perfect for both interior and exterior projects, TSC and AE offer versatility, allowing you to layer or combine a spectrum of hues for bespoke effects tailored to your vision.
Coverage is generous, with one quart dye covering up to 150 square feet, and one gallon tackling an expansive 400-600 square feet, dependent on the porosity of the surface and material use. To activate the pigment, remember that acetone is essential, which must be obtained from local suppliers. For optimal results, one quart requires 32 ounces of acetone, while the gallon size calls for a full gallon.
Ten Second Color™ is not just about aesthetics; it's a cost-effective approach to concrete staining that saves time, reduces labor costs, and enhances the durability of your surfaces. Whether revitalizing a patio, crafting a striking entryway, or sprucing up a residential or commercial space, TSC and AE give you the power to create unforgettable concrete designs in a flash. Say goodbye to lengthy processes and embrace fast, stunning color transformation with Ten Second Color™.
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Technical Data
Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
Ten Second Color
**This product should only be used on fully cured concrete. Allow a minimum of 28-45 days of cure time after
the concrete is poured to allow ample time for the concrete to completely hydrate.
Uses: Ten Second Color (TSC) Dye can be used to achieve a beautiful mottled effect similar to acid
stain with a dry time of less than a minute. Differing colors can be layered over the top of each other
for a color blending. TSC Dye also allows the applicator to make custom colors by mixing different
concentrate colors together. *Not recommended for polishing.
Coverage: One quart TSC Dye covers an average of 100-150 sq ft.
One gallon TSC Dye covers an average of 400-600 sq ft.
Coverage variations depend on concrete surface porosity and amount of material applied.
Safety: Always use appropriate safety equipment including but not limited to, goggles, face shield, rubber
gloves, chemical resistant clothing or apron, and chemical respirator. Consult the product MSDS for additional
safety information.
Surface Preparation: Scratch test the concrete to verify the top surface is not dusting or disintegrating.
Concrete must be clean and free of all dirt and contaminants. Concrete floors must be open and porous prior to
applying TSC Dye. Approved materials for the cleaning and preparation process are as follows:
CR-580 Degreaser – Used for the removal of oil and grease.
CR-590 Paint & Sealer Remover – Used to remove paints and sealers.
CR-765 Surface Prep & Etch – Used for laitance removal and opening of pores of the concrete.
CR-585 Surface Neutralizer – Used to balance the surface pH after application of Surface Prep & Etch.
Step 1: If needed, remove all paint and/or sealer from the surface using CR-590 Paint & Sealer Remover.
Step 2: If the surface has an oily or greasy film OR if CR-590 Paint & Sealer Remover was used, scrub the
surface using CR-580 Degreaser.
Step 3: (REQUIRED) Use mechanical means to open up the pores of the concrete (Grinding, Black Pad,
Sanding Screen or Coatings Removal Pad for Interior Slabs or Pressure Washer for Exterior Slabs) or apply
CR-765 Surface Prep & Etch at a dilution ratio of 4 parts water to 1 part Surface Prep & Etch. Scrub in with a
stiff bristle broom. When the fizzing action stops, rinse the surface with water. Do not allow the Surface Prep &
Etch solution to dry on the concrete. If a more porous surface is needed repeat Step 3. An interior floor’s
surface texture should feel similar to 120 grit sand paper.
Step 4: (REQUIRED) If acid etching, you must apply CR-585 Surface Neutralizer (dilution of 8 oz in 5
gallons water) using a stiff bristle brush or broom to scrub in the neutralizing solution then rinse with
water. Dispose of all waste water in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Step 5: Apply TSC Dye after allowing the surface to dry completely and vacuuming it thoroughly. All dust must
be removed.
Color Test- Apply a test sample of TSC Dye in an inconspicuous area of the floor to verify color. Use
the same application method for the test spot as what is planned for the entire floor.
Mixing
***ACETONE MUST BE ADDED TO DYE**
32 OUNCES CONTAINER: MIX 32 ounces of acetone to under filled jars of TSC dye..
GALLON CONTAINER: Mix 1 gallon of acetone with 1 gallon container of TSC dye.
Stir well to disperse the dyeing agents.
CAUTION:
Acetone is Flammable - Do not use any form of electrical equipment to mix the dye with the
acetone. Refer to MSDS for exposure limitations and safe handling practices.
Application:
Concrete substrate MUST be clean and dry before applying TSC Dye. Apply TSC Dye with a cone tip pump
sprayer that is compatible with acetone. Keep the tip approximately 24 inches from the surface. Apply in a
uniform circular motion, not allowing product to puddle in low spots. The concrete surface should appear wet
for just a few seconds when applied properly. TSC Dye can also be applied with a brush, roller or HVLP spray
equipment. Properly evaluate each job to determine the best method of application.
TSC Dye may leave residual dye on the surface after each application. Vacuum loose dye prior to sealer
application. The use of water to clean and remove loose dye is NOT recommended.
When spraying TSC Dye, protect surroundings with masking paper or masking plastic.
Sealing– It is strongly recommended that a clear sealer be applied as a top coat for abrasion and UV
resistance. It is recommended that a non-skid / skid reducer be utilized when sealing exterior surfaces.
Seal surface with a low viscosity, sprayable sealer. Use appropriate sprayer and tip per individual sealer
instructions. If applying with a roller, do not overwork sealer as it may reactivate the dye.
Floor Finish –When using a floor finish, allow sealer to dry and completely cure for 3-4 days. Apply floor finish
per manufacturer’s specifications.
Storage and Shelf Life– Shelf life of unopened product is approximately two years.
Variances– Results may vary due to shades and/or hues of concrete. Texture of the slab affects final color
appearance. Many slab characteristics show through the stain, especially with more transparent colors.
Warranty– This warranty is made in lieu of all other warranties, either expressed or implied. Before application
the User shall determine the suitability of the product for his/her intended use and User assumes all risks and
liabilities whatsoever in connection therewith. Neither seller nor manufacturer has any knowledge or control
concerning the purchaser’s use of this product and no warranty is made as to the results of any use. The
Manufacturer and/or Seller warrants that if any goods supplied prove defective in material the sole obligation
shall be to replace said product. Any claim of defective product must be received in writing within one (1) year
from date of shipment. Neither Manufacturer nor Seller shall assume any liability for injury, loss, or damage
resulting from use of this product.
