Watertight admixture advances level of waterproof concrete for SANCCOB

Drawing on the latest admixture technology to adapt to changes in the cement industry, the innovative Sika Watertight Concrete system not only increases the use of replacement materials but allows the use of a wide range of aggregate types. Here is prime case study of how Sika® WT-200 P helped protect the newly constructed exercise pools for SANCCOB.

Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), operating in Table View for 33 years and having treated nearly 100 000 seabirds, SANCCOB (Western Cape) was in desperate need of new modern facilities.  Over the years, it has become synonymous with conservation of the endangered African penguin and is a leader in seabird rehabilitation, chick-rearing, veterinary care, as well as contributing to ground-breaking research.  This meant the organisation’s capacity needed to increase to save more birds, improve the standard of care and educate more people about seabird conservation.

 Even good quality concrete will allow water to permeate the surface; thus the need for a good waterproof concrete mix that safeguards the exercise pools from damp and water leakage. The application of concrete supplied contained Sika’s watertight solution, Sika® WT-200 P, to provide a durable, watertight finish. The volume of capillary pores provide a pathway for water on one side of the structure and air on the other. The volume of capillary pores in the concrete matrix is proportional to the water/cement ratio. Understanding and controlling water/cement ratio is the basis of concrete technology and, as well as permeability, how it affects the strength and durability of concrete. In addition the special formula and ingredients of Sika® WT-200 P enhances the self-healing properties of concrete and will improve the ability to heal concrete cracks.

 The newly constructed exercise pools were completed to the client’s full satisfaction and meant Sika’s watertight concrete solution played a major part in providing SANCCOB the reassurance of watertight protection, ensuring its stability and performance for many years to come.