Unlocking the Power of Integral Waterproofing Admixture for Durable and Waterproof Concrete Structures

Ingress of water and aggressive substances is the main reason responsible for the physical and chemical degradation of concrete structures and pavements, which in turn shortens their life span and results in an annual cost of billions of dollars to the national economies. Many studies have been conducted to improve the durability and service-life of concrete infrastructure and pavements using different integral waterproofing admixtures and surface coatings/membranes. The use of an effective integral waterproofing admixture (such as ChemConcrete-WP) has several benefits over surface protection because the integrally waterproof concrete is not vulnerable to deterioration, does not require regular maintenance, has no application cost, and can be used where surface protection is too complex or impossible to apply. In this article, we will explore the benefits and significance of integral waterproofing admixture in creating waterproof and durable concrete structures.

Understanding Integral Waterproof Concrete

According to the National Corporation of Highway Research Program in the USA, waterproof concrete should have a water absorption rate of below 2.5%. The German Committee on Reinforced Concrete limits the water absorption rate of waterproof concrete to below 50% compared to the reference concrete. In British Standard, it is mentioned that waterproof concrete should have the ability to prevent the movement of moisture from one place to another.

Understanding Integral Waterproofing Admixtures

Integral waterproofing admixtures are classified into four main groups. The first group is water repellent, also known as hydrophobic admixtures, which are suitable for some applications where concrete is not exposed to hydrostatic water pressure like concrete pavements. The second group is densifiers such as supplementary cementitious materials and non-chemicals. These densifiers refine the pore size distribution of concrete and densify the concrete matrix, but hydrophobic admixtures change the surface tension within cracks and pores to raise the liquid contact angle and thereby resisting absorption. The most widely used densifiers are supplementary cementitious materials such as fly ash, slag, and silica fume. The effectiveness of these densifiers in reducing the water absorption rate of concrete is very limited; and it’s proven that they can’t reduce the water absorption by over 20%. That’s why the concrete developed by adding supplementary cementitious materials shouldn’t be recognised as waterproof concrete based on the definitions of waterproof concrete. The third group is crystalline admixtures. A well-designed or engineered crystalline admixtures can reduce the water absorption rate of concrete by pore blocking arising from solids depositions through the chemical reactions. The last group and the new generation of integral waterproofing admixtures is called hybrid waterproofing admixtures. ChemConcrete-WP integral waterproofing admixture is classified as a hybrid waterproofing admixture, which means that almost all the mechanisms of waterproofing, such as densifiers, water repellent chemicals, expanding agents which act as a pore blocker, nano technology, self-healing agent, etc., are used in the production process. Currently, the only hybrid waterproofing admixture in the market is ChemConcrete-WP product, which was developed by a team of globally-renowned scientists and professors at Chem Concrete Pty Ltd in Australia. In this patent-pending and cost-effective product, some proprietary chemicals with different waterproofing mechanisms are used to provide a permanently waterproof concrete by a reduced water absorption rate and permeability over 95%. This innovative product eliminates the need for external waterproofing measures and ensures comprehensive protection for the entire structure.

The Benefits of Integral Waterproofing Admixture

Enhanced Durability and Lifespan

By incorporating integral waterproofing admixture into the concrete mix, the resulting structure gains exceptional resistance to water damage. The admixture creates a hydrophobic layer within the concrete, preventing the absorption of moisture and reinforcing the overall strength and durability of the structure. This enhanced durability is particularly beneficial for structures exposed to moisture-rich environments, such as basements, foundations, tunnels, bridge decks, wharves, shotcretes, concrete waterways, concrete piles, pipelines, concrete pavements, retaining walls, swimming pools, concrete water tanks, OSD tanks, roofs, balconies, dams, concrete road barriers, concrete kerbs, concrete blocks/bricks, sewer pipes, reclaimed land, service environments, trafficable and/or landscaped concrete, areas where hazardous chemicals (e.g., salt, organic acids, sulphates, and chlorides) are present, and any other concrete structure exposed to water and waterborne contaminants. Integral waterproofing admixture are also used in any concrete in maritime environments that needs a long-term and maintenance-free service life such as jetties and wharves, boat ramps, and other similar structures. It can be used in any situation that is damp or wet and where the transfer of moisture, the intake or absorption of water, and the presence of salts, acids, or other corrosive chemicals is unpleasant. Product like ChemConcrete-WP provide a permanently watertight concrete under either static or hydrostatic water pressure as proven by independent testings.

Cost-effectiveness

Investing in an effective integral waterproofing admixture proves to be a cost-effective measure in the long run. While the initial cost of product might be slightly higher compared to surface protection methods, the long-term savings generated from reduced maintenance, repairs, and potential structural damages far outweigh the initial cost. Furthermore, the elimination of external waterproofing systems simplifies construction processes, saving the construction time and labour costs.

Achieving Optimal Waterproofing Results

Proper Application

To harness the full benefits of integral waterproofing admixture, it is essential to follow recommended guidelines during the concrete mixing process. This includes adhering to the specified dosage of admixture, ensuring thorough mixing to achieve a homogenous blend, and using good-quality cement and aggregates. Proper application will result in a seamless and robust waterproofing solution.

Quality Admixture Products

When choosing integral waterproofing admixture, it is of vital importance to select products from reputable manufacturers known for their quality and reliability. Chem Concrete Pty Ltd is currently the sole manufacturer of ChemConcrete-WP waterproofing admixture and the only supplier who provides long-term performance-based warranties up to the design life of structures under some specific conditions. Their ChemConcrete-WP product is an environmentally-friendly integral waterproofing admixture for concrete and pavement protection. It is used to improve the durability and service-life of concrete exposed to seawater, chloride, acid, sulphate, rainwater, salt, ASR, freezing-thawing, static and hydrostatic pressure, etc.

Conclusions

Waterproofing concrete structures is no longer a mere necessity; it has become an integral part of ensuring durability and longevity. With integral waterproofing admixture, construction professionals can create resilient and waterproof concrete structures that withstand for hundreds of years. The enhanced durability, increased lifespan, and cost-effectiveness offered by integral waterproofing admixture make it an indispensable tool in the construction industry. By embracing this innovative solution, builders and engineers can redefine the standards of waterproofing and deliver structures that surpass expectations.
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