EP #166: Can Concrete Heal Itself?

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ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST

How can concrete be waterproofed from the inside instead of relying on a membrane attached to the surface?

Seth is joined by Nick Karam, PE, Business Development Manager at Xypex, to explain how crystalline waterproofing works, where it is commonly used, and how it compares with traditional membranes and coatings. Nick explains how the chemistry reacts inside concrete, how it can help seal hairline cracks when water is present, and what contractors and engineers should consider when comparing products, testing performance, scheduling leak tests, and weighing upfront cost against long-term maintenance.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

• Why hardened concrete can still allow water to move through pores and capillaries

• How crystalline waterproofing reacts with water and cement-hydration byproducts

• The difference between an integral crystalline admixture and a surface membrane or liner

• How crystalline products can also be applied as a slurry coating to existing concrete

• Why water exposure can reactivate crystalline chemistry around a new crack

• What Nick says contractors should expect during an initial leak test

• Why a two-to-two-and-a-half-week healing period may need to be considered in the project schedule