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XYPEX TECHNOLOGY
What is Xypex Crystalline Technology?
Xypex is a non-toxic, chemical treatment for the waterproofing and protection of concrete. Xypex's primary and most distinguishing performance feature is its unique ability to generate a non-soluble crystalline formation deep within the pores and capillary tracts of the concrete - a crystalline structure that permanently seals the concrete against the penetration of water and other liquids from any direction. Xypex crystalline products are dry powder compounds composed of portland cement, silica sand and many active, proprietary chemicals.
Xypex at Work
To create its crystalline waterproofing effect, Xypex must become an integral part of the concrete mass. It does so by taking advantage of the natural and inherent characteristics of concrete; concrete is both porous (capillary tract system) and chemical in nature. By means of diffusion, the reactive chemicals in Xypex use water as a migrating medium to enter and travel through the capillary tracts in the concrete.
This process precipitates a chemical reaction between Xypex, moisture and the natural chemical by-products of cement hydration (calcium hydroxide, mineral salts, mineral oxides and unhydrated and partially hydrated cement particles).
The result is crystallization and, ultimately, a non-soluble crystalline structure that plugs the pores and capillary tracts of the concrete. In this condition, the pores become discontinuous and the concrete is thereby rendered impenetrable by water and other liquids from any direction. The Xypex crystalline process will reactivate whenever water is present.
The crystallization process that Xypex causes within the pores and capillary tracts of concrete is illustrated below in electron microscope photos taken by an independent research team.
The result is crystallization and, ultimately, a non-soluble crystalline structure that plugs the pores and capillary tracts of the concrete. In this condition, the pores become discontinuous and the concrete is thereby rendered impenetrable by water and other liquids from any direction. The Xypex crystalline process will reactivate whenever water is present.
The crystallization process that Xypex causes within the pores and capillary tracts of concrete is illustrated below in electron microscope photos taken by an independent research team.
Concrete (Untreated)
A control sample of concrete was sheared through at 50 mm below the top surface. The sheared face shows some of the by-products of cement hydration with which Xypex reacts. Precipitated calcium hydroxide together with cubic and rhombic particles are visible.
A control sample of concrete was sheared through at 50 mm below the top surface. The sheared face shows some of the by-products of cement hydration with which Xypex reacts. Precipitated calcium hydroxide together with cubic and rhombic particles are visible.
Xypex Crystallization (Initiation)
Taken at 50 mm within a Xypex-treated concrete sample, this photograph shows the initiation of the Xypex crystalline reaction after Xypex Concentrate was applied to the surface.
Taken at 50 mm within a Xypex-treated concrete sample, this photograph shows the initiation of the Xypex crystalline reaction after Xypex Concentrate was applied to the surface.
XYPEX Crystallization (Mature)
This photo was taken 26 days after the application of Xypex Concentrate at a depth of 50 mm into the concrete sample. A dense, fully developed crystalline structure has formed within the capillary tracts of the concrete to completely block the flow of water.
This photo was taken 26 days after the application of Xypex Concentrate at a depth of 50 mm into the concrete sample. A dense, fully developed crystalline structure has formed within the capillary tracts of the concrete to completely block the flow of water.
Xypex is proven to Perform
For almost forty five years, proprietary Xypex Crystalline Technology has set an international standard of excellence in concrete waterproofing.
Xypex technology has been tested extensively and is proven to perform in many scenarios. Permeability, chemical resistance, compressive strength, freeze thaw, durability, potable water and other tests have all indicated positive results.When it comes to specifying concrete waterproofing, durability and protection products, Xypex crystalline technology has no equivalent.
XYPEX TEST SUMMARY
Xypex crystalline technology has been tested successfully in independent scientific laboratories throughout the world.
Permeability, chemical resistance, compressive strength, freeze thaw, durability, potable water and other tests have all indicated positive results. Below you will find a selection of independent tests of Xypex and its influence on concrete properties in numerous scenarios.
FAQ
How waterproof is Xypex-treated concrete?
A major independent testing laboratory performed concrete waterproofing tests on Xypex in accordance with Army Corps Permeability Specification CRD-C48-73. The results showed that a two coat application of Xypex on 50mm thick 13.8 MPa porous concrete totally eliminates leakage at pressures of at least 123.4 m of head pressure (1.2 MPa), the limit of the testing apparatus.
Xypex Admix treated concrete samples, when tested under the same testing regime as for Xypex Coatings, was tested to 1.05 MPa (106 m head of water) and exhibited no measurable leakage.
How deep does the Xypex crystalline formation penetrate the concrete?
The Xypex Chemical reactions that initially take place at the concrete surface or immediately adjacent area, will continue deep into the concrete structure. Xypex Admixture is homogeneous within the concrete matrix and consequently the chemical reactions occur throughout the concrete ensuring complete waterproofing of the concrete.
Independent testing measured the depth of Xypex crystalline penetration into a cast-in-place concrete block at 30 cm. The test concrete samples was coated on the top surface with Xypex Concentrate and left outside the research laboratory in ambient conditions for 12 months.
How long does Xypex last?
A Xypex application, unlike most other systems, is permanent. It’s unique dendritic crystalline growth will not deteriorate under normal conditions.
How resistant is Xypex to aggressive chemicals?
Based on independent testing according to ASTM C267-77 “Chemical Resistance of Mortars”, Xypex is not affected by a wide range of aggressive chemicals including mild acids, solvents, chlorides and caustic materials. Because Xypex is pH specific (not chemical specific) it will protect concrete from any chemical whose pH range is 3.0 to 11.0 constant contact, or 2.0 to 12.0 periodic contact.
Is Xypex affected by temperature, humidity, ultraviolet and oxygen levels?
When applied according to specifications, Xypex performs at 100% efficiency within -32oC to +130oC constant temperatures or within -185oC to +1530oC periodic temperatures. Humidity, ultraviolet and the oxygen level (oxidation) have no effect on a Xypex treatment.
Does Xypex protect reinforcing steel?
Yes. By preventing the intrusion of chemicals, salt water, sewage and other harmful materials, Xypex protects concrete and reinforcing steel from deterioration and oxidation.
Does Xypex protect concrete against freeze/thaw damage?
Yes. By preventing the intrusion of chemicals, salt water, sewage and other harmful materials, Xypex protects concrete and reinforcing steel from deterioration and oxidation.
Is Xypex toxic?
No. Xypex contains no volatile organic carriers (VOC) and can be applied safely in enclosed surroundings. Xypex is approved by numerous country and state health and waterworks departments for use on structures which contain potable water or foodstuffs. A few of these agencies are listed below:
Australian Water Quality Centre, Australian Standard AS/NZS 4020 NSF International Swiss Federal Department of Health Japan Food Research Laboratories United Kingdom (DWI) Drinking Water Inspectorate Singapore Institute of Standards and Industrial Research Slovak Ministry of Health.
Can Xypex be applied against extreme hydrostatic pressure?
Yes. Because Xypex is not dependent upon adhesion to the concrete surface and instead becomes an integral part of the concrete mass through crystallization, it is capable of resisting extreme hydrostatic pressure from either side (positive or negative) of the concrete.
Can Xypex be applied while the concrete is wet?
Yes. In fact, the concrete must be wet or moist before applying the Xypex slurry coat. Xypex requires moisture to generate the crystalline growth in the concrete. The presence of moisture is also necessary to ensure proper bonding of the slurry coat to the surface.