Reinforced Concrete Waterproofing: Effective Solutions for Durability

There are different types of admixtures, the use of which is related to the conformation and characteristics of the concrete structure. While the use of fluidizing admixtures for concrete is common, crystallizing admixtures are useful in certain situations. These admixtures improve performance and protect structures.

Using crystallizing admixtures helps change the properties of concrete. It makes concrete waterproof and increases its strength. Thus, degradation caused by chemical and weathering agents is reduced.

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This improves the durability of concrete. In this way, maintenance expenses can be reduced in the long run. In addition, the deterioration of concrete is slowed down.

The use of admixtures to make concrete water-resistant can also improve the workability of the mixture. This has a positive effect on hardened concrete, especially for repairing existing structures.

One of the characteristics of concrete that leads to its degradation is porosity. This is formed during setting and hydration. Porosity makes concrete vulnerable to external chemical agents.

The rate at which a fluid passes through a solid is called permeability. A permeable material lets the fluid pass through without changing its structure. In impermeable materials, this passage does not occur, because the structure does not allow it.

DRYKOS' crystallizing technology is used to waterproof concrete. It is a chemical treatment that enhances this process. It provides waterproofing that not only affects the surface. It also involves the entire structure of the concrete.

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The use of crystallizing admixtures makes concrete resistant to water. These admixtures cause a chemical reaction in pores and micro-cracks.

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This leads to the formation of needle-shaped crystalline structures. These structures are insoluble and are formed inside pores and capillaries. Thus, they block the passage of water.

DRYMIX crystallizing additive from DRYKOS is made for this purpose. It is put directly into the cement mixture. It can be used both on the construction site and in concrete mixing plants.

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For watertight waterproofing of foundations, tanks and hydraulic works in general, DRYKOS has developed DRYBOXSYSTEM®

It is a white tank type system that allows:

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• in carrying out the work with waterproof concrete obtained through the additive of DRYMIX ULTRAaqueous-basedcrystallizing and waterproofing mass product, from the DRYKOS range.
• in taking care of the construction of rigid joints, movement joints and casting joints with specific products and devices designed and tested over time by DRYKOS. Thus achieving the total and lasting impermeability of the structure.

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It is a system with many advantages, including:

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• Does not require changes to the structural design nor to the characteristics of the concrete mix envisioned by the designer
• DRYMIX ULTRA is automatically integrated into the concrete mix. This is done through the liquid admixture feeders. Thus, it is part of the plant's automated production cycle.
• the end-of-cycle printout and the DDT will show the exact amount of DRYMIX ULTRA crystallizer within the load
• Does not require specialized third-party companies to set it up
• is environmentally friendly and safe, does not pollute, is suitable for contact with drinking water, and earns points for the LEED system.
• Is economical and reduces construction time compared to other systems

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applied under the supervision of DRYKOS technicians, allows the issuance of the 10-year posthumous warranty by leading insurance company.

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DRYMIX ULTRA from DRYKOS is a modern crystallizing product. It is water-based and is used to waterproof, restore and protect concrete.

DRYMIX ULTRA is better than cement-based crystallizers. It has higher compressive strength and penetration resistance. It is formulated to be compatible with all types of cement. It can be used in the automatic cycle of the concrete batching plant, like other liquid admixtures.

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DRYMIX ULTRA also reacts with moisture. It creates a crystalline formation that blocks the passage of water. This formation is reactivated if there is new seepage. It seals cracks up to 0.4 mm.