Crystalline Concrete Admixture Applications

Crystalline Concrete Admixture Applications

Crystalline concrete admixture is an innovative solution that delivers integral waterproofing by forming crystals within the structure of the concrete. This liquid admixture reacts with the chemicals present in the concrete to form crystals, sealing the micro-cracks and capillary voids of the concrete completely and creating a watertight structure.

Because the crystalline waterproofing property is integrated into the mass of the concrete, it is unaffected by surface damage, impact or mechanical wear. It therefore provides a long-lasting and durable waterproofing solution.

Advantages of Crystalline Concrete Admixture Applications:

• Integral Waterproofing: Penetrates the entire mass of the concrete to create a watertight structure.
• Durability: Retains its waterproofing performance without being affected by surface damage.
• Repair of Micro-Cracks: Delivers high performance by sealing the micro-cracks and capillary voids within the concrete.
• Long-Lasting Solution: Becomes an inseparable part of the concrete and provides permanent waterproofing.
• Environmentally Friendly: Minimises environmental impact through its innovative technology.

At Likit İzolasyon we provide effective protection against water in crystalline concrete admixture applications, with quality materials and our expert team. We offer professional solutions to make your structures durable and safe.

Application Areas of Crystalline Concrete Admixture

• Water tanks, cisterns and treatment structures — against both negative and positive water pressure
• Basements, lift pits and foundation retaining walls
• Swimming pools and water channels
• Increasing concrete durability in car park slabs and bridge decks
• Concrete in dams, tunnels and coastal structures where a long service life is targeted

The Working Principle of Crystalline Technology

Surface-Applied Coating

The powder product, containing cement, silica sand and active chemicals, is mixed with water and applied to the damp concrete surface by brush or spray. The active components react with the moisture and free lime in the concrete to form insoluble crystalline structures within the capillary voids.

Use as a Concrete Admixture

The product is added to the concrete mixing water or into the mixer, incorporating it into the body of the concrete. With this method, impermeability is not limited to the surface but extends throughout the entire cross-section. In new structures it reduces the need for a separate waterproofing layer.

Self-Healing Property

When water enters fine cracks that form later in crystallised concrete, the remaining active chemicals react again and fill the crack with crystalline structure. This property is effective in cracks up to a certain width.

The Application Process

• 1. Opening the surface: The laitance layer on the concrete surface is removed mechanically or by acid washing so that the capillary pores are opened. This step is essential if the active ingredients are to penetrate the concrete.
• 2. Stopping active water leaks: Points where pressurised water enters are sealed with rapid-setting plug mortar.
• 3. Saturating the surface: Before application the concrete is saturated with plenty of water; no standing water is left on the surface. Moisture is the carrier of crystal formation.
• 4. Application: The product is applied in two coats, with the coats perpendicular to each other and in accordance with the recommended consumption rate.
• 5. Curing: The surface is kept damp for several days after application. Because crystal formation continues in the presence of moisture, curing is particularly critical in this system.

Technical Notes and Standards

• Crystalline systems are not a coating like a membrane but a process that alters the body of the concrete; they are therefore unaffected by mechanical damage and puncturing.
• They cannot bridge moving cracks; expansion joints and areas where movement is expected must additionally be addressed with elastic systems.
• If the surface is not kept damp after application, crystal formation remains incomplete and the expected impermeability is not achieved.
• In applications in contact with drinking water, the product must hold a health suitability certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a crystalline application replace a membrane?

In terms of watertightness it is an effective solution, and against mechanical damage it is superior to membranes. However, it cannot bridge moving cracks. In structures where movement is expected, and at expansion joints, it must be designed together with elastic systems.

Can plaster or ceramic tiles be applied over it afterwards?

Yes. Because the crystalline system penetrates into the concrete, it does not form a film on the surface; once the curing period is complete, plaster, screed or ceramic tiles can be applied over it. This is an important advantage in areas that require a finish.

Does it work on the negative side?

Yes. Because the crystalline structure forms within the cross-section of the concrete, the direction from which the water pressure comes does not matter. For this reason it is frequently preferred in basements and lift pits where intervention from outside is not possible.

Is it better to add it to the concrete as an admixture or to apply it to the surface?

In new structures, adding it as an admixture is advantageous because it spreads impermeability throughout the entire cross-section and does not require a separate application stage. In existing structures, surface application is the only option.