Because of its strength and longevity, concrete is a material that is frequently used in construction. All materials are susceptible to the elements, though. The durability and structural integrity of concrete structures can be strongly impacted by moisture and corrosion.
In addition to weakening the concrete and causing cracks and spalling, excessive moisture can also cause the corrosion of the steel reinforcing the concrete, further jeopardizing the structure. Concrete structures that have these problems not only have a shorter lifespan but also require more expensive maintenance and repairs.
Thankfully, concrete can be effectively shielded from these harmful effects using a few simple techniques. Concrete structures can be made to last for many years by comprehending the causes and putting the right preventative measures in place.
In addition to offering helpful advice and insights for preserving the longevity and functionality of concrete structures, this article will examine the various methods for shielding them from moisture and corrosion.
| Method | Description |
| Waterproof Coatings | Apply a protective layer to prevent water from penetrating the concrete. |
| Sealing Joints | Seal cracks and joints to block moisture entry. |
| Drainage Systems | Install systems to redirect water away from concrete structures. |
| Corrosion Inhibitors | Add chemicals that prevent steel reinforcement from corroding. |
| Regular Maintenance | Inspect and repair damages promptly to maintain protection. |
Moisture and corrosion can cause damage to concrete structures, weakening their integrity over time. Concrete requires appropriate protection techniques, such as corrosion inhibitors and waterproof coatings, to ensure its durability and longevity. In order to preserve the durability and strength of concrete in a variety of settings, this article will examine several methods and materials that can be used to protect concrete structures from these frequent dangers.
- Basic methods of protection of concrete and reinforced concrete structures
- Protection of concrete from moisture
- Methods for protecting concrete structures
- Means for protecting concrete from corrosion
- Conclusion
- Video on the topic
- Protection of building structures from corrosion
- SikaTop® Seal-107 12 coating waterproofing+
- Cathodic protection of reinforced concrete structures
- Skrepa M600 Injection – waterproofing and reinforcement of structures, protection of reinforcement from corrosion
- Penetron in simple terms
- How to protect concrete from moisture and destruction
- Protection of concrete products from moisture Ultra Guard concrete. Protection of concrete from water, corrosion, destruction
Basic methods of protection of concrete and reinforced concrete structures
It is important to remember that current regulatory documents should always be followed when doing construction or repair work, rather than the recommendations of "experienced" builders. The primary guideline for preventing corrosion in concrete structures is GOST 31384-2017, which governs three different kinds of protection:
- Primary.
- Secondary.
- Special.
Primary and secondary protection are typically employed in the construction of private housing.
The key to primary protection in general construction practice is achieving maximum concrete compaction with the aid of specialized additives and vibration of the poured structure in multiple ways. These steps lead to a reduction in the final structure’s porosity, which in turn causes a notable drop in water resistance and absorption.
Protection of concrete from moisture
Use different waterproofing agents to keep moisture out of concrete and brick structures. Those that seal the material’s pores and cracks by deeply penetrating its structure are especially effective. We’ll discuss these kinds of technologies.
Using waterproofing agents to protect concrete structures is a crucial step in the building process for any structure, and in our country, particularly in the northern regions, this is becoming increasingly important. This direction has recently started to advance very rapidly.
Experts have researched contemporary techniques for implementing this kind of security, and as of right now, there are hardly any problems that cannot be resolved. Contemporary waterproofing materials ensure that brick and concrete structures are successfully shielded from moisture and microbes that would otherwise ruin them.
Concrete object protection techniques fall into the following categories:
- protection of concrete objects by means of impermeable cement-based products;
- protection of concrete objects from the force impact of water masses;
- protection of concrete structures from external climatic conditions;
- restoration of concrete structures to their original condition;
- protection of the outer part from the impact of microorganisms.
The aforementioned techniques are very intricate. It is especially important to take note of the fact that none of them alone will produce satisfactory results.
Methods for protecting concrete structures
The following are some examples of cutting-edge technologies that prevent moisture from penetrating the object’s concreted portions:
- a method of protection against moisture penetration through the smallest channels;
- a method of protection against vigorous penetration of water at joints, formed cracks and with a loose concrete coating;
- method of introducing hydroactive polyurethanes into the structure to fill empty spaces, cracks that have appeared.
Insulating agents based on cement are used in the first two options. The best way to stop water from entering a concrete structure through its smallest channels is to use insulating agents made of cement to which mineral chemicals are added. Crystalline materials are created when calcium ions and water combine, severely clogging the channels and retaining moisture.
Rapid-acting insulators are used in areas of a structure where moisture intrusion is significant. They need to be prepared sparingly; they will solidify in about a minute, but no more. This method calls for a high level of expertise, so only highly qualified individuals should use it.
The application of special agents to reinforced concrete structures to fill and seal any gaps, newly formed cracks, and joints is the next line of defense. This technique is used in situations where concrete was poured with violations and enables the isolation of structures from water that are subject to continuous movements or pulsations.
It is impossible to introduce the mixture without specialized equipment and experts. In order to introduce the mixture into the structure, inlet packers are installed and pits are drilled to the necessary distance. With the use of a pump and robust rubber hoses, a unique mixture is introduced. It is based on hydroactive polyurethanes, which react with water to form foam that expands at least six times its original size and fills in cracks and voids. Because of its extreme flexibility, the foam emulsion won’t collapse under pulsation or fear large structural displacements.
This method’s specificity lies in its inability to forecast the amount of money spent. In order to ensure that mixtures are dispersed throughout the concrete structure and do not spill back onto the surface, channel introduction is typically used in conjunction with cement mortar insulation.
Applying a unique protective layer to the surface of a building structure is an additional method of safeguarding it. This layer offers the highest flexibility, is highly resistant to deterioration, has no weak structural connections, and can be promptly repaired. Mastic has become a very popular method of protecting concrete structures from moisture in recent years. After being applied to the surface and buffed smooth with regular brushes, it is covered in two layers of glass mesh for reinforcement. This material’s elasticity and ability to produce a seamless surface are its key advantages.
The most well-liked ones are:
- Hard bitumen: BN-3, BN-4, BN-5;
- Liquified bitumen: BN-3, BP-5, DH-1V;
- Grid MGH-G mastic:
- Penetron;
- Bitumen-rubber waterproofing mastic;
- Mastic bitumen-polymer waterproofing.
Blends possessing hydrophobic qualities are the most efficient. Following treatment, the mixture gradually fills the channels to a depth of ten centimeters, grows denser than water particles, and maintains oxygen access. It is necessary to combine protection techniques in order to keep a concrete structure dry.
Means for protecting concrete from corrosion
As a result, temperature variations and seasonal cycles of "freezing and thawing" have little effect on concrete with low water absorption and permeability. Concrete compaction additives: Hidetal – C-3, Complex K-7, Sika Paver HC-1, and others.
The application of different coatings to the surface of hardened concrete that serve as a dependable barrier against water, aggressive liquids and gases, and biological factors is the technical definition of secondary protection of concrete and reinforced concrete structures against corrosion. The primary methods for preventing corrosion in concrete structures GOST 31384-2017:
- Paint and varnish and thick-layer mastic coating: Enamel on concrete AK-11, Temaflor 3000, Betolax Aqua, etc.
- Paping the surface with waterproofing materials: Bipol, Aquazol, Technoelast, etc.
- Coating with plaster solutions.
- Finishing with ceramic tiles, ceramic granite, artificial and natural stone, clinker bricks, etc.P.
- Installation of ventilated facades.
- Treatment with deep penetration sealing impregnations: ULTRALIT HARD ECO, PoliFlo SEALER, Triora bioprotective agent, etc.
- Treatment with water-repellent compounds: PENTA®-811, Sofexil 60-70U, GKZh 136-41.
Concrete structures that require secondary anti-corrosion protection must undergo frequent renewals and incur substantial additional financial costs. As a result, it is applied when primary protection proves ineffective.
Concrete special protection entails a comprehensive set of measures aimed at lowering the concentration of aggressive gases and liquids, decreasing groundwater levels, providing electrochemical and protective shields, and removing hazardous production capacities to isolated workshops.
Conclusion
Selecting the appropriate material that is resistant to harsh environments while operating under production conditions can extend the service life of building structures and equipment. Furthermore, it is imperative to implement preventive measures.
These precautions include waterproofing devices, sealing production equipment and pipelines, maintaining adequate ventilation within the facility, capturing gaseous and dusty products released during the production process, operating various drainage devices properly, and preventing the possibility of aggressive substances seeping into the soil.
For concrete structures to last a long time and be durable, moisture and corrosion must be kept at bay. You can save time and money on repairs and replacements by greatly extending the lifespan of your concrete projects by putting in place effective protective measures.
There are several ways to protect concrete: cathodic protection systems, waterproof sealants and coatings, and more. Every technique has benefits of its own and works best in certain environmental and structural contexts. Choosing the best protection plan requires taking your project’s unique requirements into account.
Preventing moisture and corrosion damage also requires routine maintenance and inspections. You can preserve the outstanding condition of your concrete structures for many years to come by being proactive and taking care of possible problems early on.
