The Technology of anti carbonation coating in construction
Carbonation is a phenomenon that occurs due to changes in the moisture content of lime and concrete. It happens when water in the mixture with lime or cement reacts with carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This reaction can either be acidic or alkaline depending on the conditions. The anti carbonation coating is a technology used to prevent, reduce and retard the carbonation in concrete and lime mix before it is put into service. The anti carbonation coating also serves as a barrier against water vapour which can react with cementitious materials to form calcium carbide, a compound that has potential to cause structural damage if left unchecked. Construction anti carbonation coatings are used widely today due to their many benefits and advantages. Let’s explore further anti-carbonation coating:
What is anti carbonation coating?
Anti carbonation coatings are applied to different concrete and lime mixes to prevent, reduce and retard the formation of Calcium Carbide (CaC) which can be a threat to a structure’s structural integrity. CaC is formed when water vapour reacts with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. When this happens in concrete, the resulting calcium carbide crystals can cause cracks in the hardened concrete and, over time, can lead to structural damage in structures. Anti carbonation coatings are applied to concrete and lime mix in different ways. Normally, a polymer is sprayed onto the mix, or is applied using a spray gun. This coating is applied between different layers of concrete or lime mix, to prevent water vapour from reacting with the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Why use anti carbonation coating in construction?
The anti carbonation coating is applied in construction to prevent the bonds between cement and aggregate from breaking when the concrete or lime mix is exposed to water. This allows the concrete or lime to stay intact without crumbling or disintegrating. This is because the water molecule has a weak bond with the calcium carbide that is formed when carbon dioxide reacts with water. The anti carbonation coating prevents the formation of CaC by creating a barrier between water and carbon dioxide. The coating prevents the water molecule from bonding with the carbon dioxide and allowing the formation of CaC.
Advantages of using anti carbonation coatings in construction
The anti carbonation coating provides the concrete or lime mix with a longer lifespan and reduces the amount of maintenance required as compared to carbon-only concrete and lime mixes. Because anti carbonation coatings are applied between concrete or lime mix layers, the coating can extend the lifespan of the existing concrete or lime mix. This means that you don’t have to replace the old concrete or lime mix. You can simply protect the concrete or lime mix with anti carbonation coating, extending its lifespan and reducing the amount of maintenance required.
Disadvantages of using anti carbonation coatings in construction
The anti carbonation coating is a relatively expensive technology and is not suitable for all construction types. Anti carbonation coatings are only suitable for construction where the concrete or lime mix will remain in the same location for a long time. If the construction is changed, like if a building is moved or renovated, anti carbonation coatings will not be suitable. Anti carbonation coatings are also susceptible to damage from moisture and water vapour, which can cause structural damage to concrete and lime structures if not taken care of properly. This is especially true in climate with high level of humidity. It is important that anti carbonation coatings are maintained properly and replaced when they get damaged.
Conclusion
The anti carbonation coating is a technology used to prevent, reduce and retard the carbonation in concrete and lime mix before it is put into service. The anti carbonation coating also serves as a barrier against water vapour which can react with cementitious materials to form calcium carbide, a compound that has potential to cause structural damage if left unchecked. Construction anti carbonation coatings are used widely today due to their many benefits and advantages. Let’s explore further:
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