FAQs
Want to ask something? First check out the FAQs. You’ll find the most commonly asked questions listed here by subject.
Bonding & Fixing
Are there any types of adhesive that can be applied outdoors when the temperature is around freezing point?
No, most types of adhesive need to be applied at a temperature above 5 degrees Celsius and some adhesives only harden at even higher temperatures.
Is it correct to keep adhesive in a refrigerator?
Yes it is. Because adhesive does not cure at temperatures below 5 degrees we advise that it is kept in small tubes and bottles in a (plastic) bag in the refrigerator. We do not advise using a freezer because some types of adhesive contain water.
Are there adhesives for PP, PE, PA or PFTE materials?
No, these types of synthetic materials do not join together. Generally, they are joined at high temperature in industrial processes.
PP = Polypropylene
PE = Polyethylene
PA = Polyamide=Nylon
PTFE = Polytetrafluorethylene
What are ‘porous materials’?
Porous materials can absorb moisture. Some adhesives or sealants contain moisture. If these glues or sealants are used then one of the materials to be joined must always be porous.
Examples of porous materials include: gypsum board, untreated wood, concrete and brick, paper, cardboard, cement, etc.
Examples of non-porous materials include: Treated (primed or painted) wood, concrete and brick, construction boards such as MDF, multiplex and triplex plywood, hard and soft synthetics, polystyrene foam (tempex, EPS, XPS), metal, glass, etc.
Which adhesive should I use for earthenware and crockery?
The best is a two component epoxy adhesive such as Epoxy 5 minutes. If the pieces fit perfectly then superglue (gel) can also be used. However, epoxy adhesive produces the best adherence and is water and dish-washer proof.
Is Epoxy Metal conductive?
No, this two component Epoxy Metal adhesive has a grey colour but does not conduct.
What can I use to remove adhesive stains and residues?
If still wet, most types of adhesive can be removed with acetone. Remove white wood adhesive and wallpaper paste with water.
In general, once adhesive residues have hardened, they can only be removed ‘mechanically’ – in other words, cut away, scrapped off, sanded off, etc.
SEALING
Which silicone sealant should I use for natural stone and vulnerable materials?
Silicone Neutral and Silicone Acrylic Universal are neutral, acid-free silicone sealants that do not corrode vulnerable materials.
Can I paint over silicone sealant?
No, silicone sealant does not adhere well with other materials. Paint also does not adhere to the sealant.
Can I paint over glazing sealant?
Yes, this product is based on SMP Polymers and can be painted over with all sorts of paint.
Is Poly Max® acid free?
Yes, all Poly Max® variants are acid free.
I have purchased a transparent sealant that is white when it comes out of the cartridge/tube. How is this possible?
Some sorts of sealant contain moisture. These sealants only become transparent when they have dried out completely and all the moisture has been drawn out. Be aware that if the sealant is applied between non-porous materials and/or to cold, damp spots then it can take weeks before the sealant has dried out completely.
Do all types of sealant shrink?
No, only sealant types that contain moisture or solvents can shrink somewhat. Various silicone sealants and Poly Max® variants do not shrink.
I have used a special silicone sealant for bathroom fixtures but there is still mould. How is this possible?
Extra anti-mould elements are added to the silicone sealants used for bathrooms. As a result, the sealant is usually able to prevent mould growth for a long period of time. However, if ventilation is poor or soap residues remain on the sealant joint for long periods then the special elements can wear off.
Use Mildew Remover to remove surface mould from the sealant joint.
EUROPEAN CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS REGULATION
What does the European Construction Products Regulation (CPR) No. 305/2011 entail?
This regulation (CPR) took effect on 1 July 2013 and lays down the minimum requirements for construction products in the areas of safety, fire resistance and mechanical strength, among others. If a harmonised European standard has been established for a specific product group, the manufacturer has an obligation to demonstrate compliance with the relevant CE requirements and to label the product with the CE logo. In addition, a Declaration of Performance (DoP) must be available, describing the way in which the products have been tested and indicating the level of performance achieved by the product. PVC Adhesives, Tile Adhesives, and Chemical Anchors are subject to this European Construction Products Regulation. Sealant will be covered by the regulation as of 2014. The corresponding Declarations of Performance (DoPs) are available upon request.
Which product groups fall under European Construction Products Regulation (CPR) No. 305/2011?
PVC Adhesives, Tile Adhesives, and Chemical Anchors are subject to this European Construction Products Regulation. Sealants will also be covered by this CPR as of July 2014.
When did the European Construction Products Regulation (CPR) No. 305/2011 take effect?
The CPR on PVC Adhesives, Tile Adhesives, and Chemical Anchors took effect on 1 July 2013. Sealant will be covered by this CPR as of 1 July 2014.
What is a DoP?
A DoP is a Declaration of Performance. It describes the way in which the products have been tested and indicates the level of performance achieved by a product.
How can I obtain a DoP for my product?
A DoP is digitally available on the product information page of each product to which it applies. At this moment, we are still in the process of doing so. You can request a missing DoP by sending a contact form, accompanied by your request.
How can I obtain extra information?
If you have a question or a comment, you can ask us by sending the contact form.
Moisture Absorber
PLACING THE MOISTURE ABSORBER
Which Moisture Absorber should I select?
The Moisture Absorber that is the best product for your application depends on your specific situation. Use our product selector to help you choose.
How many Moisture Absorber should I use?
The 100 gram Moisture Absorber Ambiance can cover a volume of 10 m3
The 450 gram Moisture Absorber can cover a volume up to 30 m3
The 500 gram Moisture Absorber Ambiance can cover a volume up to 40 m3
The 1 kg Moisture Absorber can cover a volume up to 60 m3
Once you know the volume of the space concerned (length x breadth x height), then you can calculate the number of devices you need.
Where is the best place to put the Moisture Absorber ?
The best place to put it is where the problem with condensation is greatest, which is often a cold spot where the condensation is visible. Always make sure that the Moisture Absorber is on a stable surface so that it can't fall over and the fluid collected doesn't splash out of the container. Will the Moisture Absorber be visible? If so, choose the Moisture Absorber Ambiance. This version is attractively designed.
Can I also use a Moisture Absorber for very humid rooms, such as the bathroom?
Yes, although great variations in humidity tend to saturate the Moisture Absorber quicker than normal.
Ventilation is important, but if that is not possible because there is no window in the bathroom, the Moisture Absorber will certainly contribute to a better humidity balance.
Make sure there is plenty of air circulation around the Moisture Absorber and do not put it near a radiator.
Can I put a Moisture Absorber in a child's room?
Yes, Moisture Absorber can be used in a child's room. Moisture Absorber granules are not poisonous and they do not emit gas or vapour.
Naturally you should always put the device out of reach of children, because the granules, tab and fluid can be harmful if swallowed or if coming into contact with the eyes or skin.
Can I put Moisture Absorber on or near a radiator?
This is not recommended. Apart from anything else, the plastic of the Moisture Absorber is liable to melt. Moreover, the fluid can evaporate so that the moisture collected goes back into the air again. Air humidifiers work in the same way, as you put them against radiators to release moisture into the atmosphere.
My caravan dealer advises against using Moisture Absorber when the caravan is in winter storage - he says it attracts even more moisture. Is he correct?
No, this is not the case, Moisture Absorber does not attract extra moisture from outside the caravan. A Moisture Absorber is an excellent instrument for protecting your caravan while in winter storage against problems with moisture. In order to obtain the best results it is important to take account of the following issues:
- Store your caravan preferably in a covered, slightly heated area with a solid floor. This should also be a place that receives sufficient ventilation regularly. It is important that there is little fluctuation in humidity levels. This last issue occurs in glasshouses for example.
- In covered storage areas the caravan roof should be left slightly open. Make sure that no vermin can enter this way. Keep the windows closed.
- Leave inside doors, cupboard doors and lids open, and lay mattresses and cushions in such a way that there is sufficient air circulation around them. If the storage place tends to be humid, it is advisable to take the cushions, mattresses and curtains home.
- Clean the refrigerator and leave the door open.
- Always put Moisture Absorber on a stable surface and preferably in a plastic washing-up bowl that can hold any spillage in emergencies.
- Check and empty the Moisture Absorber every month.
Never put the Moisture Absorber in a metal (aluminium) sink as the Moisture Absorber granules and fluid can seriously damage it.
The packaging states that contact with leather and metal should be avoided. Why is that?
The Moisture Absorber is produced from salt. Metal starts to rust if it comes into contact with the fluid over longer periods. Leather can be stretched by the fluid, making it hard and also wrinkled or discoloured.
Is there anything else I can do to get rid of the stale smells?
Stale smells are caused by humidity, so initially the air humidity levels must be reduced by using Moisture Absorber for example. You can also chose a scented refill. Then it will smell fresh from day one! There are various scents.
Can I use Moisture Absorber in the car?
Yes, you can. Although there is a higher risk of falling over, splashing or spilling in a moving car. Therefore for this application, choose only Air Max® Safe.
USING THE MOISTURE ABSORBER
How do I start and stop using Moisture Absorber?
You don't have to start or stop Moisture Absorber. As soon as the air humidity rises above 50% it starts to work automatically. You will see this for yourself after a while when the moisture starts collecting in the container. What happens when the air humidity drops below 50%? The Moisture Absorber stops automatically and goes into a 'holding' mode.
After placing Moisture Absorber can the air not become too dry?
No, Moisture Absorber stops automatically when the air humidity drops below 50%. Therefore you don't have to worry about Moisture Absorber making the air too dry.
Will the air become drier if I use more than one Moisture Absorber?
No, it is a good idea to use more than one Moisture Absorber in larger spaces where a single Moisture Absorber would be too small. The ideal air humidity level will be achieved more quickly by using more than one Moisture Absorber. Using more than one Moisture Absorber will never make it drier, because they all stop once the air humidity level drops below 50%.
How long does a Moisture Absorber keep going?
On average 2 to 3 months. The exact lifecycle depends on the level of humidity and the temperature. The more humid the air, the faster the contents are used up.
There is still no fluid to be seen in the container after a week. Is my Moisture Absorber working properly?
Your Moisture Absorber is working perfectly. Having no fluid in the container can be caused by one of three situations:
1. Moisture Absorber only starts to work when the air humidity level exceeds 50%. If the humidity level is lower than this, then Moisture Absorber just patiently waits.
2. All the moisture has not fallen into the container right from the start. Initially the moisture is completely absorbed by the granules, without anything dripping into the container. Fluid only starts to drip into the container once the granules or tabs have become saturated. This depends on the level of humidity in the air and sometimes it can last up to three months.
3. Moisture Absorber works more slowly at lower temperatures. It can be a long time before the fluid starts dripping into the container, especially in winter.
The granules were nice and white, now they've gone all brown and grey. Has something gone wrong?
No, this discolouring is normal and is caused by contamination and particles in the air.
The container is nearly full, but the granules or tag are not yet finished. What should I do?
With very high levels of humidity it can happen that Moisture Absorber has removed so much moisture from the air that the container is already full, while Moisture Absorber still has its granules or tab. You should empty the fluid container in the meantime without fitting the refill pack. You can then fit the refill once the granules or tab have been used up. It is also advisable to empty the fluid container again at the same time.
The openings on the grill to the fluid container are blocked with granules and crystallised fluid. Is this normal, and what should I do?
This is quite normal and is caused by a fall in the level of humidity in the air. This mainly happens when there is a sudden change in temperature or air humidity. You should simply rinse the grill in hot water to remove the blocking crystals or lumps.
The granules in my Moisture Absorber are lumping together and there is still no fluid in the container. Is my Moisture Absorber working properly?
This is quite normal and is caused by a fall in the level of humidity in the air. The occurs mainly when there is a sudden change in temperature or air humidity levels. Just rinse the grill in hot water in order to remove any crystals or lumps that are blocking the way.
Why has my Moisture Absorber been completely used up much sooner than the 2-3 months stated on the packaging?
The higher the levels of humidity, the faster Moisture Absorber works and is eventually used up. Particularly when using Moisture Absorber for the first time, it has to work extra hard to reach the ideal air humidity levels. Once it has done this, Moisture Absorber no longer has to work so hard and therefore 2-3 months is a realistic period.
REFILLING THE MOISTURE ABSORBER
When should I change my Moisture Absorber refill?
Once virtually all the granules in the holder have been 'used' or have disappeared, it is time for a refill. This is normally after 2-3 months.
What do I do with the fluid that has accumulated in the fluid container?
Preferably this should be poured down the toilet or a ceramic washbasin or sink. Afterwards give it a good rinse in order to dilute the fluid. Do not empty it into a metal sink if possible, because the fluid can affect the metal. Always take care when handling the fluid! Spilt or splashed fluid can cause spots and stains that are difficult to remove.
When placing the Moisture Absorber some small granules fell through the grill into the fluid container. Are they no longer usable?
No, as long as the granules are in the container, they just continue doing their work. Therefore the granules are not lost.
STAINS
How do I remove stains from solid materials?
Immediately remove the stains on solid materials using a sponge and plenty of water. Repeat the action a number of times.
How do I remove stains on textiles?
Stains in textiles (floor coverings, upholstery) can be removed with sodium sulphate. You can buy it at your hardware store or at a pharmacy*.
Make a 5% solution with water (50g/l) and spread it over the stain. Let it work in for approximately 30 minutes. Then dry it off using a hairdryer or electric heater. Remove the remaining powder with a vacuum cleaner. Repeat the process if necessary.
*sodium sulphate is also a service article available from the Bison Information Center: Tel. 0900 - 247 66 46.
SAFETY
I got some Moisture Absorber granules or fluid in my eyes, what should I do?
Immediately rinse your eyes with lots of water and then consult your GP or eye specialist.
My child has swallowed Moisture Absorber granules or fluid, what should I do?
Remove any granules from the mouth. In the case of swallowing, immediately make the child drink two to three glasses of water to dilute the fluid and consult a doctor.
What are the most important First Aid steps?
- After inhalation: provide fresh air and consult a doctor if the person has any symptoms.
- After contact with skin: thoroughly wash hands.
- After contact with eyes: rinse the eyes under running water for a number of minutes with the eyelids open. Contact a doctor if the complaints continue.
- After swallowing: do not attempt to vomit – call for immediate medical assistance.
Is Moisture Absorber harmful for plants, animals or foodstuffs?
Moisture Absorber is in principal not harmful as long as there is no direct contact with the granules or the fluid that has been collected. No gases or vapours are released when in use.
It is advisable to keep Moisture Absorber out of reach of children and pets and not to eat or drink while moving, emptying or refilling it. Always wash your hands thoroughly in hot water after coming into contact with the device, the granules or the fluid.
Is Moisture Absorber poisonous?
Moisture Absorber is suitable for domestic applications and can therefore be used without any problem in every room of the house, whether it is a cupboard or a bedroom.
Moisture Absorber granules and tabs contain calcium chloride, a hydroscopic type of salt. Although it can be an irritant in the eyes, it is not actually poisonous. It is recommended to avoid contact with the eyes and skin and to wash your hands in water after being in contact with it.
Avoid inhaling any dust particles from the refill. Always store Moisture Absorber devices and refills out of reach of children and pets. Do the same as you do with other household items, such as cleaning agents.
SALES
Where can I buy Moisture Absorber devices and refills?
You can buy Moisture Absorber devices and refills at DIY and household stores.
REACH
What is REACH?
REACH is a new European regulation for chemical substances. The abbreviation is standing for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. The heart of REACH is that a company has to know, in principle, the risks of all delivered materials and do have to determine all measures to control the concerning risks. With the implementation of REACH the responsibility for an adequate risk control of chemical substances is moving from the government to the companies themselves.
What is the goal of REACH?
The goal of REACH is to guarantee a high safety level at the production and the use of chemical substances for people and environment. By REACH more information will be available on the used substances. The communication on these substances will be improved in the chain from producer to end user and visa versa.
Which obligation are involved?
Producers, distributors and importers do have the obligation to registrate substances with a set of details with regard to safety for people and environment. Several terms and several demands are applicable for the profound of the details. This is depending on f.i. the volume and the harmful characteristics of the materials. Information on the controllability on the risks has to be informed between the companies into the chain. For the preparation of the Registration users of substances (as f.i. in adhesives, sealants and coatings) have to provide their suppliers with information. For the most critical chemical substances an interdiction will be set up, for which the EU can permit under strict conditions an Authorisation for production and use.
What is the planning?
The REACH legislation will be applicable from the 1st of July. Before 1st of December 2008 all substances will have to be registrated at the REACH registration office in Finland. 1st of December 2010 of all most dangerous substances the risks have to be known. 1st of July 2018 all substances for REACH have to be implemented.
What does REACH mean for you as a customer?
In the future you will receive products, for which all health and environmental risks are more clearly documented. As a lot of applications in the adhesive and sealant industry are the same, the adhesive and sealant industry will set up a number of so called “generic exposure scenario’s” and send these to the raw material suppliers. As these are set up, Bison will ask their raw material suppliers to registrate the used substances and to test this, if required, in the way our products are used. The end result of the total process will be a better environment and a safer work and social climate.
Are there also disadvantages?
The REACH legislation will be applicable from the 1st of July. Before 1st of December 2008 all substances will have to be registrated at the REACH registration office in Finland. 1st of December 2010 of all most dangerous substances the risks have to be known. 1st of July 2018 all substances for REACH have to be implemented.
What does Bison do to prevent this?
Bison has started to make an analysis of the risks. Based on the knowledge we have until now we investigate:
- The danger classification of the substance.
- The uniqueness of this substance for our products.
- The chance that this substance possibly will not be registrated, respectively will taken away from the market.
We will use this analysis to offer you an alternative in time.
Where can you require more information with regard to REACH?
www.reachcentrum.eu
http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/reach (german/english/french)
http://ecb.jrc.it/reach
We trust this information is at your satisfaction. To respond on all your questions, as adequate as possible and to advise you well, Bison has started a REACH project group. If you need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us at reach.du@bison.boltongroup.nl We will do our utmost to provide you with the right information!
