Epicuro : specialist products for repair, improvement and protection of all types of buildings and structures.

Once corrosion is established in the first layer of steel reinforcement spalling is inevitable. The concrete surface gets pushed off because the volume of rust products is greater than the original volume of steel.

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Q2. Why are rust stains seen on concrete surfaces?

Rust stains indicate corrosion of steel reinforcement. It is more likely to occur in porous concrete and where the concrete cover to the reinforcing bars is thin.

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Q3. What is carbonation and why is it important

Newly cast cocncrete is strongly alkaline. Carbonation caused principally by acid rain, is the process by which concrete losses alkalinity. This loss of alkalininty means that the reinforcing bar are vulnerable to destructive corrosion. If the so-called carbonation front developes into the steel reinfocement zone the dowlling action of the bars is also reduced and the structural member weakened.

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Q4. Why is the depth of carbonation important?

In exposed unprotected concrete, the carbonation front can be expected to progress typically 1mm per year. Where the depth of concrete cover to the steel is substandard, say only 10mm-15mm the reinforcing steel could be at risk after on 15 years of the life of the structure.

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Q5. Can anti-carbonation coating prevent concrete decay?

Yes, if applied early in the life of the structure. Its application can be equivalent to substantially increasing the depth of protective concrete cover to the reinforcing bars. If the carbonation front has already reached the bars the benefit is marginal

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Q6. Should anti-carbonation coatings be applied to old concrete?

Depending on the amount of carbonation that has already occured, the benefit may be marginal. For an extensive project, it would be wise to determine the depth of the carbonation front before proceeding.

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COSHH Assessments

Q1. What does COSHH stand for?

Control Of Substances Hazardous to Health

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Q2. What is a COSHH Assessment?

A COSHH Assessment is the user's statement of the risks associated with the use of a material and the measures to be taken to ensure it is used safely. It include PPE requirements, accidents, fire and waste disposal.

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Q3. Why are COSHH assessments necessary?

To understand associated risks and thus avoid adversely affecting the health, safety and welfare of the people using them

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Q4. Who does the COSHH ASSESSMENT?

The contractor using the material in question

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Q5. When is a COSHH Assessment needed?

Before using any materials on a buiding or construction site?

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Q6. How are COSHH Assessments useful?

Materials used for repair, protection an improvement of steel & concrete structures carry varing risks for the user. Materials range for non-hazardous to the highly toxic. Undertaking a COSHH Assessment focuses the user's attention on the level of hazard and the actions needs to ensure it is used safety. Identification of appropriate Personal Protective Equipement and what to do in the event of accidents are important aspects of this.

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Q7. Is a COSHH Assessment a legel requirement?

Yes. A respectable client or main-contractor will expect to see one before they allow work to commence on site. They are normally requested for the pre-commencement meeting.

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Q8. Why should I bother with COSHH Assessments?

Firstly, COSHH Assessments are required under current Heath & Safety Legislation aimed at protecting users & others from possible harmful effects. Secondly, Clients & Main Contractors require them under the provisions of CDM. Thirdly, if someone is harmed or injured, you could be liable to prosecution due to failure in 'Duty of Care'. Forthly, if you ignore them, your company might look really dumb to others.

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Q9. Where can I get help with COSHH Assessments?

One of the ways is to download the Guidance COSHH Assessment document that we provide when you by a product from us. They are pesonalise with you company details added.

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Risk Assessments

Q1. Is help available for preparing a Risk Assessment.

Yes, this web-site has a fast, easy to use tool to help you carry out a Risk Assessment. It is free to use when you buy products from us. It results in a document that is personalised to your comapny and the title of your project. Other help is available by attending training course and via the internet.

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Q2. Why should I bother with a Risk Assessment?

If you do not undertake a valid Risk Assessent, members of the public, your workforce and other workers may be the victims of avoidable accidents. It could also result in prosecution and affect your ability to secure future work.

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Q3. What is a Risk Assessment?

A Risk Assessment is a list of identified risks in the execution of a work asignment. It states the nature of the risk, who is at risk, risk reducing measures and the level of residual risk with the reducing measure inacted.

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Q4. What happens if the risk is still very high inspite of risk reducing measures?

Establish ways to reduce the risk further or find alternative materials & methods to complete the work safer. Possible actions could include increasing the number of men in the work team, adjusting the length and frequency of work breaks, increasing health monitoring or special training.

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Q5. How should the level of risk be expressed?

There are some formal methods but using a range of expressions from negligible to extremely high, will do. The important thing is that it conveys meaning to everyone involved in making and using the Risk Assessment. Extremely high obviously means that an accident is likely to happen.

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Q6. What are the ingredients for a high risk?

Consequence and probability are the important ingredients. If the probable outcome of an accident is serious and it is very likely to happen, the risk will then be extremely high if not unacceptable. Death would obviously need to be associated with extremely negligible probability to consitutue an acceptable risk. In the end, what every the determined level of risk we should always seek safer methods work.

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Q7. Can Risks be calculated?

Yes, we can use Risk Level = S x P, where S is the severity of the accident outcome and P the probablity of it happening. At the extremes, S=1 could mean a sticky plaster on your small finger and S=10 death. Similarly, P=1 could mean extremely unlikely and P=10 will also definely happen. Multiplied as pairs, these would give Risk Levels in the range of 1 to 100. If we were to extange the probabilities we would end up with 10 in each case. Using maths is okay but the big question is how to use numbers, for example, set the cut-off at 30? I prefer not to use numbers but go straight to the residual risk with the best risk reducing measures in place. This is a grey area.

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Q8. Who should do the risk assessment?

All those involved in planning, supervising and executing work need to be involved and clearly understand the Risk Assessment. An approach adopted is some companies is for someone to draft a provisional risk assessment and then review and amend it in consultation with all parties. There may be some generic influence in this but total reliance on ready made Risk Assessments is inherently unsafe not least because each work site is different.

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Method Statements

Q1. What is a Method Statement

Is a clearly understandable planation of how an item of work is to be completed. From it, the reader should be able to understand if materials are processes comply with specifications and standards. It will identify plant and equipment and materials to be used and the sequence of work.

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Q2. Can generic Method Statements be used.

Generally not, mainly on account of differences in access, work zone area etc. A specific but comprehensive Method Statement that covers differnet application situations could be relevent for a named product. In this event, other aspects of the work would also need to be covered by Method Statements.

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Q3. How do I prepare a method statement?

Firstly, gather information; drawings, specifications, product data sheets, material safety data sheets etc. and visit the site, if possible. Secondly, breakdown the job into its sequential stages, from setting up on site to clearing away your rubbish when you are finished. Thirdly, write down one sentence/paragraph for each stage of the work. A typical paragraph might identify the equipment and tools to be used, the products involved, product applicaion requirements (e.g. to smooth finish, 0.2 kg/m2 ) and time implications (time between coats). The final paragraph should explain how you are going to leave the site tidy and safe, especially accounting for your waste materials.

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Q4. Is help available for Method Statements?

Yes, free Guidance Method Statmentts are available when you confrim orders for our products. These are personalised and made job specific for each material so you will have a good idea what is expected in a Method Statement. Help is also avialable elsewhere through text books, internet etc.

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Chem-Crete Products

Q1. 001. What are the advantages of PaviX, SofiX & YufiX compared to other brands like Xypex?

The Xypex and ChemCreteX (ICC?s Xypex type product) are products that are generally used for vertical applications, waterproofing very porous block and can bridge cracks up to 2.8mm (1/10th inch). Both products are cement based products which require skilled masons and normally a three day wet cure to prevent cracking. The SofiX CCC100 and the SofiX CCC700 are liquid applied waterproofing materials. The SofiX CCC100 is guaranteed to block moisture drive up to 10lbs per one thousand sq. ft. in a 24 hour period. The SofiX CCC700 is guaranteed to block moisture drive up to 16 lbs per one thousand sq. ft. in a 24 hour period. Both the SofiX CCC100 and SofiX CCC700 can easily be applied by low pressure sprayers, airless sprayers, roller, or brushing. The SofiX series products can be used on vertical as will as horizontal applications and can be ready for traffic after product has dried. Normally 1 hour at 21.1ºC (70ºF). No wet curing is required. No special equipment or masonry skills are required. Labor costs are reduced. Can be coated within 24 hours after application. Products are odorless, non-toxic, and non-flammable. Can bridge cracks up to 1.76mm (1/16th inch) Are permanent moisture blockers and will remain active for the life of the concrete substrate. PaviX CCC100 is a liquid applied product which is generally used to protect highways, airport runways, parking garages etc. from surface moisture and salt intrusion. YufiX CCC1000 is a liquid applied water repellent used as a non-toxic, permanent replacement to silane or siloxane. YufiX CCC100 product is generally used for vertical applications. YufiX CCC1000 can be used as a waterproofer for concrete, natural stone, lime stone, block, brick etc. Neither the PaviX CCC100 nor the YufiX CCC1000 should be compared to a cement based waterproofing material; they are designed for different application requirements.

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PAVIX QUESTIONS

Q1. What tests have been preformed to verify how well PaviX works on concrete?

PaviX has undergone a battery of ASTM specified tests by an independent testing laboratory familiar with concrete testing. The current ASTM tests PaviX has been analyzed for are the following: Freeze- Thaw test C-666, Scaling test C-672, Product Penetration C-856, Abrasion Resistance C-944, Water Soluble Chloride C-1218, Pull-Off Strength test D-4541 and Water Vapor Transmission E-96.

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Q2. How deep does the PaviX crystalline formation penetrate the concrete?

The reactions that initially take place at the concrete surface is a liquid application that immediately penetrates into the capillary pores of the concrete surface. Over a short period of time depending on humidity levels the liquid PaviX turns into a gel which in ?turn forms hygroscopic and hydrophilic crystals. PaviX will search out moisture to the bottom of the capillary tube regardless how long it is in length.

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Q3. How long does PaviX last?

PaviX product application is permanent. Once placed, the crystals remain active indefinitely. Its unique crystalline growth structure will not deteriorate.

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Q4. How resistant is PaviX to chemicals?

Based on independent testing PaviX is not affected by a wide range of chemicals including mild acids, solvents, chlorides and caustic materials. It is resistant to oils, fuels and prevents dusting.

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Q5. Is PaviX affected by temperature, humidity, ultraviolet and oxygen levels?

Humidity, ultraviolet and the oxygen level (oxidation) have no effect on a PaviX. As humidity increases, the crystals actually swell in the capillaries to block moisture from entering the capillary.

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Q6. Does PaviX protect reinforcing steel?

Yes. By preventing the intrusion of chemicals, salt water, sewage and other harmful materials, PaviX protects concrete and reinforcing steel from deterioration and oxidation. If corrosion has already present, it will slow the process by not allowing moisture to enter the capillary tube.

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Q7. Does PaviX protect concrete against freeze/thaw damage?

Yes. By blocking the intrusion of water into concrete, PaviX protects the concrete from the damaging effect of repeated freeze/thaw cycles.

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Q8. Is PaviX toxic?

No. PaviX contains no volatile organic carriers (VOC) is completely safe to the environment.

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Q9. Can PaviX be applied against hydrostatic pressure?

Yes. Because PaviX is not dependent upon adhesion to the concrete surface and instead becomes an integral part of the concrete mass through crystallization, it is capable of resisting hydrostatic pressure from either side (positive or negative) of the concrete.

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Q10. Can PaviX be applied while the concrete is wet?

Yes and No. Best results are obtained when the concrete is dry or slightly moist but not wet. PaviX being water based carries the crystalline growth deep into the concrete. PaviX, once applied will not be affected if rain were to fall shortly after application. PaviX starts working immediately after application.

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Q11. Is PaviX used to waterproof cracks, joints and other defects in concrete?

Yes. PaviX has a specific repair system that utilizes its unique crystalline waterproofing technology to stop water flow through up to 1/16 cracks. In the case of expansion joints or chronic moving cracks, a flexible sealant is recommended.

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Q12. Is PaviX suitable for use on surfaces other than concrete?

PaviX is totally compatible with the chemistry of concrete, whether poured-in-place, pre-cast or concrete block. PaviX may also be used on mortar, plaster, stucco, terrazzo, exposed aggregate and any sand aggregate cement combination.

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Q13. What is the appearance of a PaviX coating?

PaviX is a colorless, transparent liquid; initially the concrete will appear darker for several days until the material has dried the concrete. When moisture is present, PaviX treated surfaces will not change in color because no moisture can penetrate into the concrete.

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Q14. Can paint and other finishing materials be applied over a PaviX coating?

Yes. Paint, cement purge coats, plaster and stucco can be applied or installed over concrete protected with PaviX. For detailed instructions, refer to PaviX "Specification and Application Information".

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Q15. What are some typical PaviX applications?

PaviX can be applied to any concrete surface. Applications include Bridge decks, Airport Runways, Reservoirs, Tunnels, Parking Structures, Sidewalks, Sewage and Water Treatment Tanks, Secondary Containment Structures, Underground Vaults, Foundations, Roof Decks, and Below Grade Construction.

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Q16. How is PaviX different from other products?

The dual PaviX crystalline formation (hygroscopic & hydrophilic) for concrete waterproofing is substantially different from traditional barrier products (membranes, cementitious coatings): 1. PaviX creates a crystalline structure deep within the pores and capillary tracts of the concrete mass to prevent the penetration of water and aggressive chemicals and also form a barrier at the surface of the concrete. 2. PaviX it is resistant to hydrostatic pressure. 3. PaviX will seal hairline cracks up to 1/16 inch. 4. PaviX will not deteriorate after years of intense service. 5. PaviX is permanent and crystals activates whenever moisture is present.

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Q17. What are the application advantages of using PaviX?

The crystalline nature of the PaviX waterproofing system provides many application advantages: 1. PaviX is a single component dual crystalline hygroscopic & hydrophilic product. 2. PaviX is fluid applied water based material. 3. Application equipment from brooms, squeegee, hudson hand sprayers or 250-2500 gallon sprayer units are readily available. 4. PaviX requires no special protection during backfilling or during placement of steel, wire mesh or other materials. 5. PaviX can be applied on either side of a concrete surface ? the negative or the positive (water pressure) side. 6. PaviX forms a monolithic coverage that can be added to at any time. 7. PaviX is less costly to apply than most other methods.

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Q18. What is the recommended application rate for PaviX?

Typically a coverage rate of between 150 ? 250 square feet per gallon will provide ample coverage. Consultation with the manufacturer?s technical department or your local PaviX representative for assistance in determining the appropriate dosage rate based on specific requirements and conditions of your project.

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SILANE QUESTIONS

Q1. What is the composition of the crystalline material?

The base or foundation of the PaviX CCC100 crystal is Sodium Tartrate case # 868-18-8. There are other ingredients which give the PaviX CCC100 its special properties that increase the chemical resistance of the crystal structure and added properties that enhance and to add water repellency. These ingredients are proprietary and company secrets but none of the ingredients are toxic.

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Q2. What are the by-products of its reaction within concrete?

The PaviX CCC100 does not react with any ingredients contained within the concrete substrate. The only by-product that remains within the concrete substrate is the crystal structures which are designed for the protection of the concrete substrate as well as the reinforcing steel contained in the concrete substrate.

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Q3. How do you know when you have applied enough of the system? Is it because you have used the recommended dosage?

International Chem-Cretes research was very extensive in determining what amount of PaviX CCC100 was the optimum dosage for the protection of a high-way concrete substrate. Economics were not a determining factor in the recommended dosage. Performance of the product to concerning the protection of the concrete substrate was the only consideration. Appling more PaviX CCC100 product than the recommended dosage for a high-way concrete substrate will only waste product, but will not have an adverse effect on the substrate.

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Q4. In your frequently asked questions brochure you claim that PaviX is resistant to hydrostatic pressure. What evidence have you got to support this?

The PaviX CCC100 technology is derived from the proven moisture blocker product lines International Chem-Crete has developed for concrete substrates over the past thirty-five years. Based on this successful technology, International Chem-Crete naturally employed this historically proven technology for the protection of high-way concrete substrates to elimination the moisture related problems well documented within this industry.

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Q5. Question and Statement. Silane, for example, does not claim to be efficient when subjected to a hydrostatic head, i.e. where areas of ponding may exist?

Silane will not and can not make a claim that it can resist a hydrostatic head. The product is a surface treatment that is designed to only repel water intrusion for a limited time. It is not designed as a moisture blocker. Ponding water will have no effect on the PaviX CCC100 product, since it has been designed to block the intrusion of water, vapor or moisture into (from above or below) the concrete substrate.

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Q6. Do the crystals bond themselves into the concrete matrix?

No the crystals do not bond themselves to the concrete substrate. The term that should be employed other than bonding is the PaviX CCC100 crystals occupy the voids and capillaries of the concrete substrate. Please keep in mind the PaviX CCC100 crystals are activated by the presents of moisture which can increase their size up to sixteen times when compared to their dry or dehydrated state. The crystals will last for the life of the concrete substrate, they are intertwined within the matrix, and they will not degrade.

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Q7. If, so does the concrete remain permeable to vapor, etc?

The PaviX CCC100 is not permeable in the present of vapor, moisture or water.

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Q8. Has the effect of the system been considered in terms of the rate of carbonation of the concrete surfaces treated with PaviX, in comparison to those that remain untreated?

The unique property of the PaviX CCC100 water repellency helps eliminates the possibility of carbonation from reducing the higher PH levels of the concrete substrate because of its ability to keep the concrete substrate dry and the sealing of the voids and capillaries, further assuring the reinforcing steel an inert environment preventing corrosion of the steel reinforcement. Silanes require the alkali of the concrete substrate to create a reaction, which in turn reduces the PH levels within the concrete substrate. This elimination of the higher PH levels within the concrete substrate accelerates the possibility of carbonation leading to the deterioration of the concrete substrate and increasing the possibility of corroding the steel reinforcing structure.

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Q9. What is the sodium and alkali content of PaviX? Would the application of PaviX lead to an enhanced risk of deterioration due to alkali aggregate reaction in structures?

PaviX CCC100 contains no free sodium (Sodium Tartrate is a dehydrate and the base of the catalyzed structure) and contains no alkali! A concrete structure treated with PaviX CCC100 is better protected from alkali aggregate reaction due to the fact that this reaction requires moisture to develop within the concrete substrate.

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