What is Wet / Leakage Injection?
Wet or leakage injection is a specialized method used to repair cracks and stop water infiltration in concrete structures. This technique involves injecting a water-reactive material, typically polyurethane, into cracks or voids in concrete. The material expands upon contact with moisture, effectively sealing the crack and preventing further water leakage. Wet injection is commonly used in basements, tunnels, foundations, and other concrete surfaces exposed to moisture or high water pressure.
How Does Wet / Leakage Injection Work?
The wet injection process is designed to fill cracks and voids with a material that reacts with water, ensuring that the crack is completely sealed and waterproofed. The process generally follows these steps:
- Surface Preparation: Before the injection begins, the surface around the crack is cleaned to remove dirt, debris, and loose concrete, ensuring proper bonding of the injection material.
- Injection Port Installation: Small injection ports are placed along the crack. These ports allow the injection material to flow evenly through the crack.
- Material Injection: A water-reactive material, such as polyurethane, is injected into the crack. The material expands upon contact with moisture and fills the crack completely, forming a waterproof seal.
- Curing and Sealing: Once the material has been injected, it cures and hardens to create a long-lasting, watertight seal. Any excess material is then cleaned off the surface.
Benefits of Wet / Leakage Injection
Wet injection offers several advantages when repairing concrete structures that are exposed to water or moisture:
- Effective Waterproofing: Seals cracks and prevents water from entering concrete surfaces, protecting against water damage and deterioration.
- Fast and Efficient: Quick application with minimal downtime and disruption to the environment.
- Durability: Creates a strong, long-lasting bond that ensures continued waterproofing performance.
- Cost-Effective: A practical alternative to removing and replacing damaged concrete sections.
- Minimal Disruption: Ideal for repairs in occupied or sensitive areas due to its non-invasive nature.
Applications of Wet / Leakage Injection
Wet injection is used in various concrete applications, particularly where water infiltration is a concern. Common uses include:
- Basement Walls: Seals cracks and prevents water seepage, protecting against structural damage and mold growth.
- Foundations: Effective for sealing foundation walls and slabs that are exposed to water pressure.
- Tunnels and Underground Structures: Ideal for high-pressure environments where leakage must be stopped quickly.
- Parking Garages: Prevents water damage and corrosion of steel reinforcements.
- Bridge Decks: Stops water infiltration in cracks, preventing deterioration of infrastructure.
Types of Injection Materials Used
The choice of injection material depends on the project needs. Common materials include:
- Polyurethane Foam: Expands upon contact with moisture to completely seal voids and cracks.
- Polyurea: A fast-curing, durable sealant used where a quick turnaround is necessary.
- Acrylic Gel: A low-viscosity material suitable for sealing fine or hairline cracks.
Why Choose Wet / Leakage Injection for Concrete Repair?
Wet / leakage injection offers reliable protection for moisture-related concrete issues. Key benefits include:
- Waterproofing Capabilities: Provides a watertight seal that prevents long-term damage from water exposure.
- Minimal Impact: Ideal for hard-to-reach or sensitive areas requiring discreet repair.
- Long-Term Results: Injection materials deliver long-lasting protection and structural reinforcement.
- Cost-Effective: Reduces the need for extensive repairs or replacements, saving time and money.
Conclusion
Wet / leakage injection is an ideal solution for concrete repairs where water infiltration is a concern. This method offers fast, cost-effective, and durable results that protect concrete structures from water damage and deterioration. Whether you're dealing with basement walls, foundation cracks, or tunnels, wet injection provides the long-lasting waterproofing solution you need.
