Electrokinetic nanoparticle treatment for crack repair in concrete

Author(s): Henry Cardenas, Israel Popoola
Paper category: Proceedings
Book title: Proceedings of the International RILEM Conference on Materials, Systems and Structures in Civil Engineering Conference segment on Electrochemistry in Civil Engineering
Editor(s): Lisbeth M. Ottosen
ISBN: 978-2-35158-176-6
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-177-3
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2016
Pages: 166
Total Pages: 1
Language : English

Abstract: 
Subgrade areas of concrete structures can suffer from water penetration through foundation cracks. In many cases cracks can be sealed using a non-shrinking grout. Unfortunately, the interface between the grout and the crack surfaces tends to exhibit relatively poor strength. In difficult cases the ingress of water may continue along the interface. This study examined the use of nanoscale pozzolonic particles that were electrophoretically driven toward the crack repair interface. Mixed-metal-oxide coated titanium electrodes were embedded in the grout that was used to seal the cracks. The transport process concentrated the particles along these electrodes. Lab studies revealed that significant strength was developed at the repair interface. A field study is also presented in which a 3 m foundation crack located 10 m below grade was similarly treated. The study elucidated a number of practical considerations while successfully sealing the crack. At the time of the repair the floor crack was permitting a groundwater inflow rate of approximately 1 liter per hour. A 30-day follow up examination of the repair site revealed no continued water ingress despite an historic flooding event in which ~60 cm of rain fell in the vicinity during a 5-day period.

Online publication : 2016
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00