Concrete crystallization
The concrete crystallization is a system technology, which concrete components both during manufacture as well as in existing concrete structures against permeating water up to 16 bar sealing.
Basics
Concrete hardens through hydration of calcium silicates. This creates cracks and water-filled pore spaces.
Concrete crystallization agents form water-insoluble crystals in moistened pores and capillaries . The reaction of the sealant with the water, aluminum and calcium ions present in the concrete component forms an insoluble crystal which grows deep into the capillary system. As long as there is moisture in the building material, the crystal structure grows almost indefinitely towards the moisture.
This process takes place both with and against the water pressure, so that the concrete building material has such a high structural density over time that water can no longer penetrate in its liquid state.
The pollutants chemically dissolved in the water (e.g. chlorides , salts, etc.) can no longer be transported into the concrete component, which among other things prevents damage to the concrete reinforcement. After the conversion of the total moisture is complete, the process comes to a standstill.
If, due to fundamental changes or other influences on the component, renewed water-bearing crack formation occurs, the crystallization process continues.
composition
A well-known product for concrete crystallization is Penetron . According to the company, it consists of Portland cement, special quartz and other active ingredients . The seal is very likely based on a pozzolanic reaction with quartz as pozzolan , which converts water and calcium hydroxide from the concrete into calcium silicates.
field of use
In general, there are various areas of application in which active concrete crystallization provides permanent protection for the components. The carrier material for the crystalline active ingredient is cement . Basically, this method is suitable for all concrete and cement-bound building materials that come into contact with moisture. Common product variants are z. B. Concrete admixtures , surface sealants and various mortars .
Individual evidence
- ↑ Penetron technical data sheet (PDF; 2.08 MB)