Imagine you are building a foundation on the seabed, everything is going well, but suddenly the concrete is porous! You’d panic, wouldn’t you? But, this is not the end of the project. In fact, grouting porous concrete underwater does have its challenges, from water pressure, currents, to the changing nature of concrete. Plus, the underwater environment is often unpredictable, making every step extra calculated.
Don’t worry, because every problem has a solution. Let’s find out what the obstacles are and how to overcome them to keep the structure strong and safe!
Why is Grouting Porous Concrete Underwater a Challenge?
Repairing porous concrete underwater is not as easy as one might think. For this reason, subsea grouting requires not only specialized techniques, but also advanced formulations of materials that can harden under high pressure.
Now, there are some key challenges that are often faced in the process of grouting porous concrete underwater:
1. Extreme Environmental Conditions
Underwater has many challenges, ranging from strong water currents, high salt, and the pressure can make ordinary materials deteriorate quickly. For this reason, if standard grouting is used, it can be easily damaged. The solution? Use specialized materials such as epoxy or polyurethane that are more resistant in extreme conditions.
The process of working underwater also cannot be careless. You have to use heavy equipment and experts who really understand underwater concrete. So, it’s only natural that this project becomes more complicated.
2. Location Access Difficulties
Underwater locations are often difficult to access for workers and equipment. Therefore, providing a precise grouting injection system is the solution. Equipment such as specialized injection pumps that can work underwater are the main weapon for this project.
In addition, before starting, there must be an inspection to determine the extent of the damage. This usually requires technology such as ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) that can dive and check underwater structures.
3. Proper Material Selection
Grouting for underwater concrete cannot be chosen lightly. The materials used must be tough under water pressure, adhere well, and be rust-resistant.
Fortunately, there are now many advanced grouting materials specifically designed for use underwater. For example, resin-based materials that have high resistance to abrasion and hydrostatic pressure are often the first choice.
Effective Solution for Grouting Porous Concrete
Concrete deterioration underwater is a big challenge. But don’t worry, technology is now advanced and can handle this problem. Here are some effective solutions for grouting porous concrete underwater.
1. Inspection and Careful Planning
The first step to successful grouting? Check the condition of the concrete first! Use sonar or an underwater camera to clearly see the porous areas. After that, come up with a plan. Choose the right grouting material and decide how to inject it. This is very important so that there is no waste of materials and the results are maximized.
2. Choose a Quality Grouting Material
Underwater is not the place for random grouting materials. It must be pressure-resistant and not easily corroded, such as epoxy resin or polymer. The point is, choose one that has been proven to be resilient in extreme conditions. One of Estop’s grouting products that can be used underwater is Estogrout UW and Estogrout UW Premix.
3. Utilization of Modern Technology
Use equipment such as sagola pumps to make the job easier, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Also, make sure that the team working on the job understands how to use it.
Well, the point is that grouting porous concrete underwater is not easy, but it can be done. With careful planning, the right materials, and advanced technology, your project can run smoothly and the concrete will remain strong.
Fortunately, PT Hissan Trading Indonesia has a variety of grouting products that are ready to be your project solution. There is General Purpose Grouting for general needs, Under Water Grouting that is resistant under the sea, and Marine Environment Grouting for marine environments that are prone to corrosion. If you need something extra strong, you can rely on Epoxy Grouting, while Soil Improvement Grouting is suitable for reinforcing soil structures.
So, don’t panic if you encounter porous concrete underwater. Choose the right material, plan well, and the project will be safe. Check out the official website of PT Hissan Trading Indonesia!
