Global construction chemicals specialist Chryso has announced the introduction of what it says is Africa’s first liquid crystalline waterproofing admixture. The company asserts that the new  technology is set to revolutionise how the industry approaches waterproofing, delivering long-term protection by sealing concrete from within.

Added directly to the concrete mix, the company’s CWA Liquid 200 solution chemically reacts with the cement paste to form a non-soluble crystalline structure. This process reduces pore and capillary size throughout the concrete matrix, preventing water ingress and ensuring that the structure is sealed. As a result, the concrete is waterproofed from the inside out, eliminating the need for external membranes, joints or surface treatments.

“It is not just about preventing water penetration – it is about fundamentally improving the performance, durability and longevity of concrete infrastructure. From a safety, environmental and quality perspective, the benefits over traditional powder-based solutions are significant,” explains Chryso GM technical and product support management: Africa Patrick Flannigan.

Using nanotechnology, the liquid admixture is said to offer a number of performance enhancements such as increased concrete strength and resistance to chloride and sulphate ingress as well as protection against carbonation, chemical attack and freeze-thaw damage. It is also able to ‘self-heal’ micro-cracks and hairline cracks up to 0.5 mm, helping to ensure long-term resilience, even in the most demanding environments.

The product is suitable for a range of applications including basements, water tanks, reservoirs, dams, tunnels, wastewater and water treatment plants, swimming pools, marine structures and roads and bridges. Flannigan says that because it is added directly to the concrete mix, it avoids the need for costly and time-consuming surface preparation and is not constrained by weather conditions.

The solution is compatible with all types of supplementary cementitious materials, making it adaptable across different mix designs. Chryso also notes that it complements its range of admixture technologies, providing concrete producers with an integrated performance solution.

“Unlike powder waterproofing products that are manually added at batching plants, our liquid solution is accurately dosed through Chryso dispensing systems,” says Flannigan. “This means improved traceability, consistent quality and reduced health and safety risks associated with powder handling.”

The liquid format also improves concrete workability and can enhance hydration, reducing the need for other admixtures and helping optimise cost control. In addition, the solution is non-toxic, contains no volatile organic compounds and is environment friendly.