PROTECTED AGAINST FREEZING

PROTECT reduces concrete’s ability to absorb water

WHAT CAUSES FROST DAMAGES?

Concrete’s vein to absorb water is a major reason for frost damages. Using its capillary network, water, chlorides and other harmful water-borne chemicals enter through the porous structure on the concrete. Therein, they expand, thus create pressure and eventually break or deteriorate the concrete.

With our PROTECT-line we offer highly effective hydrophobic admixtures. This hydrophobic effect reduces the capillary suction and decreases concrete’s water absorption abilities.

CASE STUDY

The freeze-thawing salt damages have been tested according to EN 1338 regulations. Two specimens are tested. One treated with PROTECT, one non-treated. The surface has been treated with saline solution. Afterwards the concrete is exposed to temperatures from +20 to -20 °C for 24 hours. This test cycle is repeated for 28 times. After the final cycle the weathering is diagnosed.

The treated specimen shows hardly no damages whereas the non-treated one shows serious damages.