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.”
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