Improving Structural Life

Dr Fixit’s Pidiproof LW+ provides multiple benefits such as improved dispersion mechanism, increase in compressive strength and micro structure refinement.Primary waterproofing is usually provided through an elastic coating or membrane. However, general resistance to water penetration and improved durability of structures can also be achieved through secondary waterproofing. As over 85 per cent of the concrete produced in India is still made by volume batching, there is lack of control of W/C ratio at sites. The quality control of sand and aggregate is also limited with concrete having high permeability. Furthermore, there is ingress of salts and water in foundation concrete. This causes the concrete to detoriate raising the ground water in the walls through the capillaries in mortar and bricks. This also leads to dampness and peeling-of paints in walls at the ground level. Pollutants such as carbon dioxide along with water enter in the concrete leading to rebar corrosion and deterioration. To prevent this, site-mixed mortar and plaster are commonly used, unlike pre-mix mortars used in other countries. These site-mixed mortars lack adhesion and cohesive properties with cracks appearing in mortar and plaster surfaces.The solutionPidiproof LW+ is a unique cement additive with a judicious combination of various selective polymers that offer benefits such as improved dispersion mechanism leading to water reduction of 6-8 per cent and increase in compressive strength and micro structure re­fine­ment which reduces permeability and corrosion resistance.The compressive strength of concrete specimen with this product displays an increase of 7 per cent in 28 days. The RCPT value (measure of chloride penetration), water permeability and drying shrinkage of the concrete specimen with it displays 27 per cent, 39 per cent and 30 per cent reduction, which is quite significant. Morever, the product displays improved impermeability over PPC concrete, which by itself is more impermeable than OPC concrete. Additionally, it conforms to IS 2645 and 9103, is corrosion resistant and acts against capillary water rising dampness, improving durability in foundations.Multiple benefitsNarrow lanes known as capillaries are formed during hydration of cement, which enable ingress of chlorides, sulphates, etc. But this cement additive breaks these capillaries. Hydrophobic polymeric molecules present in the additive fill the pores and impart a hydrophobic environment, which repels the water molecule and increases the impermeability of the mortar or concrete. These polymeric and the cement particles have the same charge, which causes the particles to disperse and release locked water. This improves workability, hydration and increases the strength of concrete and mortar. Some selective polymeric particles also ingress into the pores and its impermeability delays corrosion and acts against rising dampness. These are fine micro-particles, which reach all the rear points and throughout the mortar or concrete matrix. There is improvement in cohesiveness. This reduces the rebound loss in trowelling, leading to higher mason productivity. An overall effect of reduced cracking is observed.Accessories to operateAccessories include photocell installation on fixed mounting, red reflective strips, fixed or moving mounting, vandal proof electrically operated lock, aluminum skirting and arm pivot pin kit at 90°. The product can be operated with batteries or light kit and comes with a display module for diagnostics and enhanced control.(Communication by the management of the company)