This underground mine, which is 1,100 feet below the surface, mined into a core hole taken from the surface. The core hole was dumping significant amounts of ground water into the mine. To stop the water inflow, a high-pressure probe and polyurethane grout was implemented. Grouting contractor Sub-Technical, Inc. used their specially designed probe to insert into the core hole. The probe contains a port where polyurethane can then be injected to permanently seal it off. The polyurethane used was SealGuard II, which is manufactured by SealGuard, Inc. SealGuard II is a dual component polyurethane grout that reacts in about 3 seconds to produce a rigid foam. The cured foam has a 900-psi compression strength.
Groundwater was leaking through the joints of these underground chambers at a wastewater treatment plant. Injecting polyurethane grout from inside the structure would provide an ideal fix to stop the groundwater from infiltrating. However, these chambers have various pipes and support structures that would make entry and performing the work nearly impossible. The solution was to still inject polyurethane grout, but from the outside. This method, often called soil grouting or curtain grouting, utilizes metal pipes driven down the outside of the structure to the problem areas. The pipes contain several holes that the grout can be expelled from when pumped. Groundwater will then carry the grout throughout the leak path, then react into a foam, thus stopping the inflow. The grout used was Hyperflex, manufactured by SealGuard, Inc. Hyperflex is a moisture activated, hydrophobic material that is NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 approved for contact with potable water. The grouting was performed by Sub-Technical, Inc.
Water was leaking out of this lake because it was flowing under the spillway instead of over it. Polyurethane grout injection was used to remedy the situation. Holes were drilled on the face deep enough to reach the backside of the spillway. Mechanical packers were then placed in the hole. The installed packers are now an injection port to hook up to the grout pump, which pumps the polyurethane to the back side of the spillway. The grout used was Hyperflex, a moisture activated polyurethane. Once in contact with the water, it foams to fill the voids and seal the leak paths. Hyperflex is NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 approved for contact with potable water and is manufactured by SealGuard, Inc. The grouting was performed by Sub-Technical, Inc.
This elevator shaft was leaking groundwater in between the floor and the first course of concrete filled block walls. Although this shaft has a drainage system, it needed to be dry to pass the final building inspection. To stop the unwanted inflow, polyurethane grout was injected to seal the leak paths. The grout used was Hyperflex and was injected by a pump and mechanical packers. Hyperflex is a single component, pre catalyzed, moisture activated polyurethane that is NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 approved for contact with potable water. Hyperflex is manufactured by SealGuard, and the grouting was performed by Sub-Technical, Inc.
A view of the tail seal brushes on a tunnel boring machine. In this situation, the tail seal brushes needed replaced and there was water flowing through seams in the tunnel segments. To control the heavy flow of water, polyurethane grout was injected around the leaks. The grout used was SealGuard II, which is manufactured by SealGuard, Inc. SealGuard II is a dual component, fast reacting material that can be easily applied with a dual component caulking gun. The grouting was performed by Sub-Technical, Inc.
Water intrusion can cause serious structural damage to buildings, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. That’s why selecting an effective water sealing solution is crucial for any construction project.
Precast concrete structures have low permeability rates, which means they can effectively prevent water intrusion and provide reliable and durable sealing. Moreover, they are a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious builders as they can be constructed from recycled materials.
This article will discuss precast concrete water sealing methods, including joint sealing, using hydrophobic admixtures, and surface coating.
Precast Concrete Sealing Methods
Several methods are available to ensure reliable and effective water sealing. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of method typically depends on various factors. These include the structure’s location, the type of water exposure, and the desired lifespan of the sealing system.
Here are some of the most popular precast concrete sealing methods:
Joint Sealing
Joint sealing involves filling and sealing the gaps between two adjacent precast concrete elements using specialized sealants. It is a popular sealing method due to its effectiveness and durability. The sealant’s flexibility also allows for the elements’ natural movement due to changes in temperature and humidity without compromising the water seal.
Using Hydrophobic Admixtures
Hydrophobic admixtures are designed to make the concrete itself water-resistant. They are often added to the concrete mixture during the batching process, and they work by reducing the water’s surface tension. They also provide a permanent, water-resistant barrier integral to the concrete. This means that there is no need for additional waterproofing materials or coatings.
Surface Coating
Surface coating entails applying a waterproof layer to the surface of the concrete. The coating functions as a barrier, keeping water out and preventing structural damage. This method creates a long-lasting, water-resistant shield that can tolerate harsh environmental conditions. Most coatings are also easy to apply and be customized to meet the project’s specific requirements.
Waterstopping
Waterstops are specifically designed materials to be placed at joints or seams in concrete structures to prevent water from penetrating them. They are highly dependable and are often utilized in underground construction such as tunnels, basements, and swimming pools. They can also give long-term protection against water penetration and are available in various materials, including rubber, PVC, and metal.
Injection Grouting
Injection grouting is a widely used method for sealing cracks and voids in precast concrete structures, making it an effective water sealing technique. The process involves drilling holes at the site of the damage and injecting grout material under high pressure into the opening. Various grout materials — such as cement-based mixtures, polyurethane foam, or epoxy resin — may be used depending on the project’s needs.
High-Quality Sealing Products From SealGuard
SealGuard II, HyperFlex, and X-Seal from SealGuard are highly effective sealing products to prevent water from penetrating concrete structures. These products are applied in their oil-like raw form, and each has a unique way of sealing precast concrete. SealGuard II is a polyurethane-based grout that reacts with a catalyst to expand and form a foam-like substance.
HyperFlex and X-Seal are hydrophilic polyurethane-based grouts ideal for precast concrete sealing applications. They work by reacting with water to expand and form a foam, filling the gaps and voids between the segments. The foam created by these grouts has excellent adhesion properties and can effectively prevent water infiltration.
Partner With SealGuard for Exceptional Sealing Solutions
SealGuard is a leading polyurethane grouting material manufacturer for water management, sealing, and adhesion of precast concrete sections and other constructions! Our products are of the highest quality and effectiveness, making them ideal for various sealing applications. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services!
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