In the ever-evolving construction industry, maintaining the integrity of construction joints in reinforced concrete structures is essential. Injection hose technology has become a crucial solution for addressing water ingress issues at these joints. This innovative waterproofing method enhances the longevity and durability of structures, ensuring effective protection against moisture.
The Importance of Proper Joint Selection
Injection hose technology can be applied to various types of construction joints, making it versatile for different scenarios:
- Concrete Walls Supported from a Raft: Ideal for sealing joints with and without a kicker, providing a continuous waterproof barrier.
- Within Concrete Walls: Particularly effective for sealing internal joints, preventing water from penetrating critical areas.
- Within Concrete Rafts or Slabs: Ensures proper sealing in raft or slab joints, vital for maintaining structural integrity.
- Concrete Slab to Concrete or Steel Piled Walls: Provides reliable sealing at these connections, crucial for structures exposed to high moisture levels.
- Concrete Slab to Brick/Block Walls: Suitable for sealing between concrete slabs and brick or block walls, preventing water intrusion.
Matching with Various Substrates
Injection hose technology is compatible with several substrates, allowing for effective waterproofing applications:
- Reinforced Concrete: Designed for seamless integration with reinforced concrete structures.
- Steel Piled Walls: Requires a welded flange for secure installation and optimal performance.
- Brick or Concrete Block Walls: Effective for application on various surfaces, providing flexibility in construction methods.
Guidelines for Concrete Cover Requirements
To achieve optimal waterproofing, follow these guidelines during installation:
- Minimum Concrete Element Thickness: A thickness of at least 250 mm ensures stability and sealing effectiveness.
- Hose Placement: Position the hose centrally in the joint to maximize its waterproofing capabilities.
- Minimum Concrete Cover: A cover of at least 100 mm protects the hose from external elements and ensures durability.
Diverse Applications of Injection Hose Technology
Injection hose technology is vital for numerous applications in construction:
- Post-Construction Sealing: Essential for sealing construction joints in reinforced concrete earth-retained structures.
- Sealing Voids: Effective in addressing voids and poorly compacted concrete, ensuring a comprehensive seal against water infiltration.
- Retrofitting Existing Structures: Ideal for retrofitting buildings that may have experienced water damage, extending their lifespan.
Performance Characteristics and Benefits
The effectiveness of injection hose technology is closely related to the quality of the surrounding concrete. If the concrete lacks density, it may allow water to seep through.
- Enhanced Sealing Capability: Injecting resin into the hose fills voids that conventional methods cannot seal, providing superior waterproofing.
- Robustness Against Water Ingress: The resin creates a continuous barrier, enhancing the structure’s integrity and reducing corrosion risks.
- Longevity of the Solution: This technology not only addresses existing issues but also acts as a preventative measure against future water ingress.
Visual Representation
Figure 1: Illustrates a hydrophilic waterbar that swells minimally, showing potential water seepage through porous concrete.
Figure 2: Depicts a physical waterstop that relies on complex shapes, highlighting how water can bypass it if the concrete is porous.
Figure 3: Demonstrates the injection of resin into the hose, filling capillaries and voids, creating a robust waterproofing barrier.
Expected Life Span
The undamaged injection hose and the resin injected can have a service life equal to the design life of the structure, provided they are specified and installed according to product data sheets. Proper installation and adherence to guidelines are crucial for maintaining effectiveness throughout the structure’s life, contributing to overall durability and resilience against water ingress.