Cement NC (stressing, NC 20) for waterproofing and sealing of joints: what is it, characteristics

One of the main dangers to the longevity and integrity of concrete structures is water. Preventing water infiltration is essential whether it’s a swimming pool, basement, or foundation. This is the application of cement for joint sealing and waterproofing. It acts as a dependable barrier, guaranteeing longevity and shielding concrete surfaces from moisture damage.

The waterproofing cement is made especially to keep water out of joints and crevices in concrete and to seal them tightly. Because of its special qualities, it is a necessary component of construction projects that call for durable waterproofing solutions. It increases the structural strength of concrete elements and keeps water from penetrating through.

High adhesion, rapid setting, and resistance to a range of environmental conditions are some of waterproofing cement’s qualities. Because of these characteristics, it can effectively block water while preserving the concrete’s integrity. Knowing how to use this kind of cement can significantly impact how long your structures last, whether you’re working on a small home improvement project or a large-scale construction site.

What is it

NC is an acronym for stress-cement. Because of its superior performance characteristics, it stands out when compared to compositions that are similar (especially Portland cement). The highest strength indicator, resistance to moisture, thus distinguishes the material designated NC. It has none of the drawbacks that come with cement that shrinks.

As a result, there is no longer any chance of cracking, and the structure’s service life is extended. The most popular choice for stressed concrete products and structures for different applications is NC cement. This type of binder composition includes stone gypsum, alumina slag, and ground clinker.

The largest amount of the first component is present. Strength is guaranteed by this composition. Lime is added to speed up the hardening process.

Traditional cement shrinks at a rate of -2 mm/m. This material becomes stronger in three weeks, and frequently takes longer than that. Owing to its characteristics, cracks appear during the hardening process, reducing the structure’s service life.

Conversely, tensile cement acquires 300 kg/cm² of strength in a matter of days. The raw mixture’s linear expansion is to blame for this. The main ingredients of non-shrink (tensioning) cement work together to give the material its high rate of hardening and increased strength.

Working with these combinations requires you to move quickly; that is, the material starts to solidify almost instantly after pouring. Depending on what the composition’s primary components contain determines how long the setting period will last.

Frequently, the material starts to solidify a few minutes after preparation, making it impossible to completely remove flaws in the cement layer’s formation.

Types

There are differences between the following cement types:

• NC – stressing;
• GC – aluminous;
• RPC – expanding Portland cement;
• VRC – waterproof expanding cement.

Every option has a different makeup. Mixtures with the same active ingredients but different dosages are observed to have different properties. The degree of hardness, rate of setting and strength gain, and moisture resistance all alter as a result. It is not possible to combine various composition types and brands.

It is incorrect to assume that in this instance, the completed structure’s hardness will rise. Conversely, uneven hardening will result from mixing different materials. Performance characteristics will deteriorate as a result.

A specialized material called waterproofing and sealing cement is used in a variety of construction projects to ensure strong, leak-proof connections and keep water out. Its essential qualities, which include flexibility, resilience to moisture, and durability, make it perfect for use in exterior walls, basements, and bathrooms. This kind of cement is simple to use, long-lasting, and ensures the longevity and structural integrity of buildings by addressing common problems like water infiltration and joint deterioration.

Technical characteristics

High strength is a characteristic of expanding (stressing) cement. The intended use of the concrete structure is taken into consideration when selecting a material type with these qualities, as this enables the determination of adequate moisture absorption and porosity indicators. These criteria are used to determine the type of composition.

The class of concrete that includes stressing cement is B40. Its minimal moisture absorption indicator and porosity, in contrast to Portland cement and compositions with plasticizers, are its distinguishing features.

Brands and properties

A mixture that doesn’t shrink is the first choice. Such a material’s primary attribute is minimal linear expansion. Because of its average qualities (adequate strength and a moderate volume increase during hardening), brand NC-20 is more in demand than the others.

The fact that NC-20 stressed cement is reasonably priced adds to its popular appeal. This material is applicable to multiple objects.

Comparatively speaking, the final choice has more strength. It also outperforms the previously thought analogs in other ways. This substance has a large capacity for expansion. It is utilized in products where stronger, more moisture-resistant, and linearly expanding materials are required.

The completed structure’s service life multiplies several times. But, you must exercise caution while working because. NC-40 cement solidifies rapidly. Compared to its equivalents, the material is more costly.

• increased resistance to compressive loads;
• the mixture hardens 30 minutes after pouring;
• the finished structure made of NC material is characterized by a minimum number of pores, which provides waterproofing properties;
• abrasion resistance;
• air impermeability;
• the cement mixture after hardening can withstand up to 1500 freeze/thaw cycles, while the structure does not collapse, the structure does not change;
• the material is resistant to aggressive environments;
• provides a high adhesion rate of the cement mixture layer with surfaces made of various materials;
• linear stress: 0.3-2%;
• self-stress – from 2 MPa;
• operating temperature range: +5 … +35 ° C.

Pros and cons

• unlimited service life;
• the material does not contain harmful additives;
• versatility: NC cement is used for waterproofing, sealing joints, when constructing foundations, swimming pools and other objects;
• excellent performance characteristics.

Cement CN has very few drawbacks. They observe the price’s high cost. In addition, prices in the regions and Moscow vary. Furthermore, it’s common to find fakes for sale. If the seller possesses a quality certificate, that is the only way for you, lacking experience and knowledge, to identify a high-quality material. Furthermore, not every brand of NC cement is resistant to freezing temperatures.

Features

It is important to keep in mind that adding strengthening additives or severely violating proportions will cause the setting speed to increase when the mixture’s composition is changed. Working with such cement is going to be challenging.

You cannot add ingredients to raise the material’s volume when the dry mixture runs out during the last phase of work. Strength, fire resistance, and other qualities may be lost as a result of this.

Scope of application

The following scenarios call for the use of the material:

• ensuring waterproofing of objects that are constantly exposed to moisture, including basements, ground floors, etc.;
• protection of surfaces that are simultaneously exposed to intense mechanical loads and water, for example, swimming pools;
• construction of facilities subject to extreme pressure: runways, floors of industrial premises;
• restoration of the properties of old structures, repair of seams and joints of concrete slabs;
• construction of bridges;
• roof installation when monolithic concrete elements are used.

How to prepare the solution

Although recipes vary, they typically follow this variation of the component ratio: take cement and sand (1:2), then add water (i.e., 40% of the cement volume). The manufacturer provides detailed instructions, which are located on the packaging. Maintain control over the structure; it ought to be uniform. For every 1 m³ of concrete, 500 kg of NC cement are used on average.

A key component of construction is cement, which is used for joint sealing and waterproofing. Its main purposes are to keep joints between various materials sealed and long-lasting and to shield structures from water infiltration.

Special additives are incorporated into this type of cement to improve its resistance to water. Even in locations that experience high levels of moisture, these additives guarantee that the cement can effectively block water. This makes it a crucial option for bathrooms, roofs, basements, and any other location where water damage may be an issue.

The proper application of waterproofing cement results in a robust, weather-resistant barrier. Because of its durability, it not only shields structures from water-related deterioration but also increases their lifespan. To maximize these benefits, application must be done correctly, which means that applying the right techniques and according to the manufacturer’s instructions is essential.

In general, cement waterproofing and joint sealing is a wise investment for any building’s longevity and structural integrity. By preventing water damage, it offers comfort and contributes to the strength and stability of construction projects for many years to come.

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