Concrete Waterproofing with Crystalline Technology
Other Applications
The material produced in dry powder from crystalline waterproofing products reduces shrinkage and cracking to a wide range of other concrete elements. Crystalline technology can improve the performance of bagged mortar mixes, stuccos, and concrete. The performance of precast concrete panels, as well as precast elements, such as pipes, box culverts, and manholes can also be enhanced.
Technical Glossary Admixtures – These are chemical ingredients that can be included in a concrete mix to enhance performance and modify characteristics. They include plasticizers, water reducers, set retarders and accelerators. Aggressive Chemicals – These include a wide range of chemicals that often come in contact with concrete. Examples include chlorides in coastal zones, sulfates often found in soils, and effluents in wastewater. Calcium Silicate Hydrate – A substance formed by the hydration of cement in concrete and is the material that binds aggregates together. Chlorides – Salts that will penetrate concrete structures carried by moisture in coastal zones or de-icing salts. Delamination – A process that occurs when a surface application of crystalline waterproofing does not adhere properly to a concrete surface. Usually due to improper surface preparation, inadequate wetting of the substrate or premature drying in hot weather. Efflorescence – A substance caused by the deposit of soluble salts and calcium on the negative side of concrete surfaces after they have been carried to the surface by moisture flow through the concrete. Green Concrete – Refers to concrete that has reached an initial or final set but is not yet fully cured. Concrete will remain green for 7 to 28 days. Heat of Hydration – The heat generated by the reaction (hydration) of Portland cement and water. In mass concrete pours, this reaction can generate very high temperatures. Ice is sometimes used in concrete mixes to reduce the heat produced by hydration. Plasticizers – Chemical ingredients used to improve the workability of concrete mixes without resorting to adding more water to the mix. Retarders - Set retarders are used in hot weather to delay the initial set of concrete mixes. Saturation Level – Refers to the amount of water in concrete, expressed as a percentage of the porosity or void space. |
Conclusion
Although concrete may appear to be a simple product to put together, it requires a highly engineered approach. In an increasingly competitive design and construction environment, where high performance requirements, such as longer life cycles, more durable concrete, and value engineering are expected, careful consideration must be paid to basic requirements, such as the concrete, water, and cement ratio; cementing materials, and more sophisticated chemical admixtures.
Effective use of crystalline waterproofing technology will reduce the porosity and permeability of conventional concrete, and provide the high performance advantages and benefits that building owners and design professionals have come to rely upon in design and construction projects.
 |
XYPEX Crystalline Concrete Waterproofing Penetrates and permanently plugs concrete’s pores and micro-cracks. Becomes an integral part of the structure. Will not deteriorate like coatings and membranes. Also available as an admixture for new concrete. Non-toxic. No VOC. www.xypex.com |
