Preventing Chloride Contamination in Parking Garages: The Importance of Anti-Carbonation Coatings and Urethane Membranes

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world, and for good reason. It is strong, durable and versatile, making it an ideal choice for the construction of parking garages. However, like all materials, concrete is not immune to deterioration and there are a number of mechanisms that can cause it to degrade over time. One of the most significant of these is chloride contamination.

One of the primary ways that chloride ions can enter a concrete structure is through de-icing salt. During the winter parking garages are often treated with de-icing salts to melt snow and ice. These salts can be carried into the garage on the wheels of cars and can then be dissolved by water that enters the garage through leaks or other means. The resulting chloride-rich water can then penetrate the concrete and cause corrosion.

Another way that chloride ions can enter a concrete structure is through the air. In coastal and industrial areas the air can contain high levels of chlorides that can penetrate the concrete over time. This is known as atmospheric carbonation, which is a form of corrosion caused by the ingress of carbon dioxide from the air.

Preventing chloride contamination of concrete in parking garages is therefore critical to ensuring the durability and longevity of the structure. One of the most effective ways to do this is through the use of anti-carbonation wall coatings and urethane membranes on the surface of the concrete floors.

Anti-carbonation coatings are designed to reduce the penetration of carbon dioxide and other aggressive agents, such as chlorides, into the concrete, thereby slowing the carbonation process. These coatings typically consist of a pigmented, polymer-modified cementitious or acrylic material that is applied to the surface of the concrete. They provide an effective barrier against the ingress of carbon dioxide and other aggressive agents, such as chlorides. These coatings are specially formulated to resist aggressive agents, UV rays and weathering, which helps them to maintain their barrier properties over time. They also offer additional benefits such as improved appearance, added UV resistance and enhanced thermal insulation.

Urethane membranes are another effective method for preventing chloride contamination. These membranes are typically applied as a liquid and then cured to form a continuous waterproof barrier on the surface of the concrete. Urethane membranes are highly resistant to the ingress of chlorides and other aggressive agents and also provide excellent durability and flexibility. These membranes are typically made with elastomeric properties that allow them to move with the substrate, thus preventing cracking or detachment.

When choosing an anti-carbonation coating or urethane membrane, it is important to select a product that is appropriate for the specific application and meets industry standards. For example, it is important to ensure that the product is compatible with the concrete and the environment in which it will be applied. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure proper and effective application.

Preventing chloride contamination of concrete in parking garages is essential to ensure the durability and longevity of the structure. The installation of anti-carbonation wall coatings and urethane membranes on the surface of the concrete floors is an effective method to mitigate chloride contamination and carbonation of concrete. These products provide a barrier that resist carbonation and chloride penetration and protects the concrete against corrosion and spalling. It's also important to have a regular maintenance program that involves monitoring, cleaning - and if necessary - reapplying these products. Preventing chloride contamination is a proactive measure that can save building owners a lot of money in the long run by extending the life of the structure and avoiding costly repairs and hazards.

In addition to using anti-carbonation coatings and urethane membranes, building owners can also take additional steps to prevent chloride contamination in their parking garages. This can include regularly cleaning and sealing any cracks or joints in the concrete which can prevent water and chlorides from penetrating the structure. It can also include regular inspections and maintenance of the de-icing salt storage and application equipment to ensure that the salts are not being accidentally spread inside the garage.

Protecting your parking garage from chloride contamination is not something to be taken lightly. It's important to have a proactive approach, using the appropriate products, following manufacturer's instructions and regular maintenance to ensure that your parking structure will stand the test of time.

Michael Long

CEO

Restocon Corporation