What type of barrier does Aqueous Potassium Carbonate (APC) create?

Aqueous Potassium Carbonate (APC) forms a vapor barrier due to its chemical properties and the way it interacts with moisture in the environment. When applied, it effectively reduces the movement of water vapor through a surface, which is crucial in various applications such as preserving building materials or controlling moisture levels in environments where humidity is a concern. By inhibiting vapor flow, APC helps to prevent the potential for damage that can result from excessive moisture, such as mold growth or material deterioration.

A solid barrier typically involves a material that is physically blocking substances from passing through, while a water barrier is generally focused on preventing liquid water ingress. A chemical barrier usually involves a material that reacts chemically to neutralize or inhibit certain substances rather than simply blocking them. In the case of APC, its primary function aligns with the characteristics of a vapor barrier, making it effective for that purpose.