The reported effects of climate change indicate rising ocean levels and greater strain on the nation’s sea defences. Many of these man-made barriers are formed out of concrete in the form of walling, promenades and deflectors. With a constant battering of both salt water and extensive natural elements, these fortifications are subjected to extreme conditions and their durability remains an ongoing challenge. For the benefit of cost, sustainability and disruption, it is essential that these sea defences are properly maintained and that their effectiveness is ensured.

The effects of salt water ingress, freeze/thaw, ion penetration and alkali/silica reaction remain a constant problem to concrete sea defences where ravelling and spalling of the exposed surfaces diminish the matrix and longevity of the protecting structure. These effects, whilst looking unsightly, also encourage the growth of algae onto the concrete surfaces causing additional problems to the maintenance engineer. Unfortunately, conventional methods of protecting concrete are overly expensive, toxic or cannot be applied within the tidal time-frames of sea defences.

ASI’s Chem-Crete Pavix process provides a sustainable solution to the problems associated with the protection of sea defences and this unique crystal forming technology holds a worldwide record of success in this sector. With a quick, single coat and environmentally friendly application, Pavix delivers a permanent barrier to the ingress of salt water and other damaging reactions. This elimination of moisture ingress maintains the integrity of the concrete surface and prevents the growth of unsightly algae and other contaminants.

Read more about the Chem-Crete Pavix process.