Why Does Concrete Deteriorate and Fail? And How to Strengthen Concrete

Concrete Strengthening and Why It Becomes Necessary

Concrete is a remarkable material widely used throughout the world in all sorts of building projects and containers. Concrete is a durable material composed of fine and coarse aggregate that is bonded together with cement paste and cured over time, forming a strong and stable surface.

Even though concrete is strong and reliable, problems can occur over time due to defects and deterioration. In these cases, repairs, concrete strengthening, or even replacement can be employed to achieve or preserve the function of a concrete structure.

What are the Types and Causes of Concrete Deterioration and Failure?

There are many types and causes of concrete deterioration, which if not treated quickly enough or handled properly can lead to failure of the concrete structure:

1. This is the loss of surface material, leaving the aggregate exposed, resulting from the freeze-thaw cycle.
2. This is the physical breakdown of the concrete into smaller fragments, typically caused by, frost action, de-icing chemicals, sulfates, or chlorides.
3. This is the deterioration of a concrete surface resulting from particles in water continuously moving across and “scrubbing” a concrete surface. This also occurs with the normal frictional wear and tear on a surface.
4. Corroding steel or other metals reinforcement. When metal reinforcement in concrete corrodes, that can result in cracking of the concrete or delamination of the concrete surface.
5. This is extended delamination of the concrete surface resulting in the detachment of large concrete fragments.
6. Chemical reactions. Cracking in the concrete can occur resulting from a chemical reaction between alkalis in the cement and silica in the aggregates.
7. Fractures or cracks in the concrete. This can occur due to settlement within the concrete mass, shrinkage, thermal contraction, or substrate settlement. Also, overload can cause fractures.

Defects in Concrete Tanks

Defects and deterioration in concrete tanks can occur in the same ways as deterioration occurs in other concrete structures: a weakening of concrete walls, sinking of foundations, failure of linings, and the natural consequences of liquid erosion. When these things occur, it is time for concrete strengthening. FRP repairs is an excellent solution.

FRP Repairs

Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) is an excellent solution for concrete (and other) structural water tanks. It is used to:

• Strengthen load capacity.
• Increase seismic strength.
• Repair damaged structures.

Contact an expert coatings contractor Bay Area for FRP repairs. FRP is a thin, yet high strength material that can be used in tight spaces as well as on large surface areas.

Call the Experts for Tank Leak Repair Work

Contact Picon FRP, Inc., based in San Pablo, CA and serving the San Francisco Bay Area.  Picon is a full-service manufacturer and field service provider of industrial fiber reinforced plastic and anti-corrosion products, tank repairs, and custom fabrication. Our products provide corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, heat resistance, abrasion resistance, and more.