Epicuro Permbloc is a unique water-based, crystallising moisture blocker, specifically formulated for permanently drying concrete and masonry affected by water ingress. It is spray, brush or roller applied to the negative water pressure side of the affected structure, preventing water and moisture transmission even under high hydrostatic pressures. It is effective against water transmission rates of up to 70 g/m2 (24 hr) in concrete. At the same time, the applied treatment is vapour permeable for drying condition, preventing unwanted build-up of vapour pressure that otherwise can damage a surface.
Epicuro Permbloc enters the material capillaries and uses the available moisture and atmospheric CO2 to form crystals that are both hygroscopic and hydrophilic in nature. The hygroscopic aspect supports crystal growth, which the hydrophilic property then develops in the direction of the available moisture supply. This means that the water barrier thickens into the substrate, towards the source of moisture. The total barrier achieved depends mainly on the porosity of the treated surface and the volume of product applied. Permbloc cannot migrate completely and disappear through the structure because its crystals are strongly bonded to the lining of the pores in which they develop.
Under prolonged drying conditions and according to the nature of hygroscopic materials, the Permbloc crystals give up their water and diminish in size. This ensures that the surface remains ‘breathable’. However, growth is restored on the return of a supply of water, reinstating their blocking characteristics. Thus, Epicuro Permbloc is a permanent treatment for the life of the structure, able to defend against both a fixed head of water or seasonal variations in water level on the positive side.
Epicuro Permbloc is used for stopping water ingress in tunnels constructed in concrete or masonry. A concrete retaining wall with seeping water is another typical project. Using Epicuro Permbloc, water ingress through masonry arches can be corrected without affecting their aesthetic value. Damp concrete floors can benefit from its application, enabling screeds, coatings or floor coverings to be installed.
Epicuro Permbloc uses wet conditions to deliver dry conditions. It overcomes the need to use heaters and dehumidifiers for achieving dry conditions, avoiding delays in drying out projects. Treatable materials include concrete, concrete blocks, masonry, cement-sand mortar, natural cement mortar, plaster, stucco and terrazzo. Projects benefiting from the product application include tunnels with water ingress, damp concrete floors, foundations and slabs, reservoirs, masonry structures, industrial installations, swimming pools, subways, lift pits, basement walls and flooring in underground car parks.