Mechanically removing the concrete surface. Usually the first stage in the polishing process.
Edge grinding
Large walk behind floor grinders can generally only grind into within 15 to 20 mm of a wall. This means an edge grinder (usually a handheld machine) must be used to ensure a uniform finish across the entire floor.
Diamond tooling
Cutting tools that contain diamonds suspended in a matrix (generally metal, ceramic, Rezin). As the matrix wears away new (sharp) diamond will be exposed.
Densifier
A silicate compound dissolved in water with carrier molecules such as potassium or lithium. These silicates react with the calcium in the concrete to boost the level of calcium silicate hydrate (some is already present in the concrete). This has the effect of hardening the surface insuring and even polish can be achieved.
Curing compounds
Generally a liquid that is applied to a concrete slab immediately following final troweling. This liquid membrane traps moisture in the slab insuring the cement is fully hydrated and so has the capacity to reach its full strength with minimal cracking.
Compressive strength
The measure of concretes strength in compression. For a new slab that is to be polished this should be no less than 32MPA, bearing in mind that good concreting practice must be exercised on site, (don’t add water, vibrate well, good curing regime) as specified by CC a a guidelines.