SureCrete's SureStain is not a typical concrete acid stain. It is made from a very mild hydrochloric or phosphoric acid solution, wetting agents, and metallic ions (salts), and specially formulated pigments.
When applied on concrete or any cementitious topping the metallic ions chemically react with the free alkaline in the cement forming oxides that produce the color. Unlike dyes that produce an even color, SureStain produces the multi-hued, variegated, mottled look of natural stone. Earth Tones perform similarly to other reactive acid stains, but with very little residue at clean-up.