How Concrete Magic Boosts Washroom Waterproofing With Admixtures

March 9, 2024Uncategorizedadmin

The use of admixtures with waterproofing materials (liquids or membranes) offers numerous benefits:

Long-lasting protection from moisture
A chloride-free waterproofing application
Reduce crack development and shrinkage
Improves workability of mixed concrete
Enhances joint protection

Types of Admixtures

Chemical admixtures are added to concrete to alter its performance and properties. Its types include:

Set Retarders
Water Reducers
Set Accelerators
Air Entrainers
Specialty Admixtures (shrinkage control, corrosion inhibitors, coloring, etc.)
Superplasticizers

How do Concrete Admixture Function?

Waterproofing admixtures are added to concrete for more reinforcement; these compounds render organic pore plugging, pore-lining repellency, and other benefits. The percentage of admixtures in concrete formulations depend on the admixture type and the cement quantity. Generally, manufacturers recommend specific dosage levels for adding admixtures.

N.B. Dosage is expressed in kgs or liters/100 kg of cement.

Admixtures function in different ways:

Changes in the rate of reaction by chemical interaction with cement.
Better particle dispersion by adsorption.
Higher air entrainment (in connection with surface tension of water)
Increased plastic viscosity (by affecting the water’s rheology)
Enhancing corrosion-resistant or water-repulsion.

Between Mixing and Hardening

Affect demand of water
Change stiffening rate
Modify air content
Change plastic viscosity

What are Crystalline Admixtures?

Crystalline admixtures are used in cement-based materials to improve durability of concrete and healing of minor gaps in closed structures. Due to advancements in the waterproofing industry, new solutions are being studied for users to benefit from: One of them is self-healing concrete.

This type of concrete heals automatically, without any addition of external chemicals. One of its ingredients, crystalline admixtures, help to enhance its mechanical properties and reduce water permeability.

Technically, the reaction with cement particles forms insoluble deposits that augment CSH’s (Calcium Silicate Hydrate) density. The tri-calcium silicate and water help form the moisture-restricting crystals. Crystalline deposits resist pressures up to 14 bars.

Excess Use of Admixtures

Affects creep and shrinkage properties of concrete
Premature stiffening and segregation of concrete
Loss of workability
More heat generation; more chances of crack formation
Reduction in entrained air reduces strength by 5.5%

Waterproofing Techniques
Integral Waterproofing	Surface Waterproofing
Direct addition of admixtures to the concrete	External application of admixtures on the concrete surface with spray gun or brush
Batch or Continuous Process	Continuous Process
No membranes	Membranes included
Sealants and Injections included	Sealants and Injections included
Less precision needed	Require more precision

Can Crystalline Waterproofing Be Applied in Washrooms?

Yes, crystalline waterproofing can be applied in washrooms, primarily to restrict water ingress from cracks in walls and joints. Apart from that, it can be used on roofs, basements, terraces, and kitchens.

Benefits of Crystalline Waterproofing

Crystalline waterproofing offers long-lasting protection, durability, and easy application. It is an eco-friendly and non-toxic chemical that doesn’t release any toxic gases in the atmosphere. Lastly, it is affordable for most users. Crystalline waterproofing is a long-lasting option. The crystals formed are deeply embedded in the crevices or gaps in walls and floors. This makes it difficult for anyone to remove them.

Advice: If you are looking for the best crystalline waterproofing experts, contact Sky Chemical Services.

Do you want to apply a long-lasting waterproofing option in your home or office? Connect with the best in the business. Experts from Sky Chemical Services are adorned with high skill and expertise: They can manage a variety of waterproofing methods, such as bitumen, polyurethane, cementitious, and more.