Construction World July 2022

from those required to build new structures. That is why it is important to consult reputable suppliers of concrete repair products – companies that can offer more than just the product but also provide advice on its suitability, as well as the system and procedures to be followed for concrete repair projects. “Among the most common challenges of concrete rehabilitation are crack repair, patching, using strengthening methods (in lieu of repair) like carbon fibre plate or wrap, and generally choosing the most appropriate repair materials for an effective long-term solution. A decision should also be taken on whether strengthening methods should be opted for instead of repair. Fortunately, the range of concrete repair products available today has made it possible to economically refurbish structures that just a few decades ago would have had to be demolished and rebuilt. The input from specialists in concrete rehabilitation - and the selection of the correct products – will avoid common pitfalls of concrete repairs,” Trew observes. He says a.b.e. Construction Chemicals’ range of concrete repair products is based on epoxies, synthetic resins, silanes and cementitious materials. Applications include flexible slurries and coatings for protecting and waterproofing the concrete parts of bridges, silos, buildings and water containment structures against attack from their environment. “a.b.e. can supply a wide range of products – as well as professional advice - on projects such as concrete crack injection, fairing, reprofiling, priming, mortar repair, and the rehabilitation of spalled concrete surfaces to name just a few requirements of concrete repair procedure which could save the owners thousands if not millions of Rands,” he states. Major projects for which a.b.e. supplied concrete repair products and consultation include: • Fish Water Flats sewage works, in Port Elizabeth • Kanengo Silo Project, Malawi • Mondi Chipper plant, Richards Bay; • N14 Bridges between Hartbeespoort and Lanseria

• Omnia fertilizer tank bases, Sasolburg • Savana City reservoir, Sebokeng, Gauteng • Northam Plats Mine cooling towers • Port Elizabeth Airport runway • Coal Tippler Project concrete repair, Richards Bay harbour. 

Kanengo Silo projects.

Tippler concrete base and column.

29 CONSTRUCTION WORLD JULY 2022