The Importance of Concrete Remediation

Concrete is one of the most durable and long-lasting man-made building materials. But, over time, it can be damaged by bacteria and corrosive chemicals.

Instead of replacing the entire structure, remedial work only addresses the damaged areas of the concrete. This approach is more cost-effective than full replacement and also saves time.

Cost-Effective

Concrete is one of the most durable man-made building materials available. But like any structure, it is susceptible to cracking and deterioration over time. If left untreated, these problems can worsen and ultimately lead to costly structural damage.

Protective coatings can significantly improve operational safety, working life and efficiency of water and wastewater infrastructure assets such as reservoir tanks, manholes, sewer pipes, chemical dosing tanks, and water towers.

Unlike steel pile underpinning, cement grout underpinning does not require major excavation and can be undertaken in a relatively short timeframe. This makes it an ideal solution for residential, commercial/industrial and government properties. It is also very cost-effective compared to other underpinning methods.

Time-Saving

Unlike demolition and replacement, remediation work is less destructive to existing concrete. This also minimises safety risks as it is completed in a more controlled and precise manner.

Instead of destroying and replacing severely deteriorated concrete, a viable option is to install galvanic encasements or jackets that structurally upgrade and cathodically protect the structure. This sustainable solution extends the service life of deteriorated concrete by up to 20 to 40 years. This is particularly important for critical water assets like water and wastewater facilities. This helps to ensure their operational safety, efficiency and working life. Moreover, it reduces waste generation and the need for landfill. It is also a cost-effective alternative to concrete replacement.

Sustainable

The concrete that forms water treatment plants, metal plating facilities and other industrial structures is subjected to a wide range of environmental conditions. These can include bacteria, chemicals and humidity. This can lead to damage and deterioration. Whether it’s structural damage or crack repair, these can affect the safety, compliance and life of the structure.

Fortunately, concrete remediation can be sustainable. This is thanks to innovations in construction materials. Crumb rubber concrete, for instance, is made with old tyres that would otherwise be landfilled or dumped into the ocean. The mix reduces the need for natural resources and addresses the growing issue of tyre waste.

Likewise, green concrete can be made with recycled fly ash and blast furnace slag instead of cement. This cuts CO2 emissions and makes the concrete more durable.

Minimises Safety Risks

Concrete remediation is a crucial process to restore the structural integrity, durability and appearance of concrete-based infrastructure. Remediation solutions include concrete crack injections, leak sealing, and concrete restoration. Addressing these issues promptly prevents further deterioration and ensures safe, long-term use of the assets.

Protective coatings are a cost-effective and sustainable way to repair corroded concrete. These coatings form a barrier between corrosive fluids and the concrete, preventing absorption and reaction. Water and wastewater assets are vulnerable to attack from aggressive liquids, requiring regular concrete remediation to maintain service life and minimise the risk of asset failure.

Many remediation sites are noisy environments, and exposure to hazardous noise can cause hearing loss or tinnitus. To reduce the impact on workers, cabs should be fitted with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, and dust should be cleaned regularly.

Preserves the Original Aesthetics

Remediation of existing concrete is a more aesthetically pleasing solution than replacing with new, as it preserves the original architectural and aesthetic features of the structure. By contrast, full replacement can result in a pastiche of styles that has no consistency or cohesiveness.

Remediation is also a more sustainable solution than demolishing and rebuilding. As well as saving money, it reduces the environmental impact of the construction industry and reduces the demand for raw materials and energy.



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