A leading
European concrete product specialist has introduced a new product into the UK
which provides a proven method of keeping concrete structures dry and protected
against the threat of corrosion.
Launched
by StoCretec – a recognized supplier of concrete restoration, protection and strengthening solutions - StoCryl V 700 borrows a technique found in nature to create a highly
effective water-repellent effect
on the concrete surface that also acts as an effective barrier to carbon
dioxide.
“All buildings and civil engineering structures
made from concrete are subject to the effects of environmental factors such as
water, frost, pollutants, and CO2,”
explains StoCretec’s UK Market and Product Manager,
Greg Astill.
“If a concrete surface remains damp for long periods, it
allows micro-organisms to become established. Initially this can impair the
appearance of the structure, but it can also start to damage both the concrete
itself and the reinforcing steel it contains.”
To
delay the onset of algae and fungal growth, StoCryl V 700’s innovative formulation creates a surface coating
which is covered by microscopic peaks and bumps. These repel water very
efficiently, while the channels between them funnel the water away quickly and
easily. This enables the surface to dry far more rapidly than with traditional
finishes, even if they are located in areas of shadow and away from any
sunlight. By controlling the moisture present on the concrete surface, StoCryl
V 700 restricts the establishment of microorganisms, meaning the surface looks
better for longer.
“StoCryl
V 700 mimics the process of the fog-basking beetle that lives in the African
desert and collects water to drink using special micro-textures on its shell,”
adds Greg. “This natural and well-proven Dryonic technology uses a special
composite of binding agents and filler material to form hydrophilic and
hydrophobic channels on the surface, and creates a highly effective new way of
protecting concrete.”
StoCryl V 700 incorporates an acrylic binding agent which gives
the coating excellent mechanical strength, great CO2resistance and a high degree of structural consistency. It forms
a rugged and reliable bond with the concrete surface, and also makes an
important contribution to environmental protection as it not only protects
against the ingress of CO2 but is a
CO2-neutral product in its
manufacture. It is available in a wide range of colour-stable shades.
“This is just the latest addition to the StoCretec range,” adds
Greg. “We offer a comprehensive selection of concrete restoration, protection and strengthening products
and systems, and this enables contractors and specifiers
to access high-quality solutions, with all the components developed by a single
specialist supplier, and backed by long-life warranties.”
