Supercast CWA

Microcracks in Concrete

Microcracks in concrete are a natural phenomenon that occurs due to the shrinkage of concrete during drying, temperature fluctuations, deformation of the structure under its own weight, or uneven soil settlement. The problem of microcracks becomes particularly relevant in humid environments, for example, for objects such as underground walls, foundations, pools, reservoirs, treatment plants, tunnels, hydraulic structures, etc. The main problem is that microcracks are the primary pathway for water infiltration, which subsequently erodes the concrete and causes corrosion of the internal reinforcement. An additive like Supercast CWA has the property of turning concrete into a "living" barrier, specifically providing it with a self-healing effect. That is, if a microcrack forms in already hardened concrete and water enters it, the active chemical components of the additive react with moisture and free lime in the concrete. As a result, insoluble crystals are formed that completely grow over and seal the crack from the inside, blocking the path for water. This material also does not contain chlorides and thus does not cause corrosion of the metal reinforcement inside the concrete, making the structure durable.