CONCRETE CANCER REMOVAL: HYDRO DEMOLITION

What is Concrete Cancer?

Concrete cancer is the deterioration of concrete due to internal reinforcement corrosion. It is a pervasive issue in the construction industry as it undermines structural integrity, reduces concrete lifespan, and increases maintenance costs for buildings and infrastructure. Fortunately, hydro demolition has emerged as an innovative and effective method for addressing concrete cancer, offering precision, efficiency, and environmental benefits.

Understanding Concrete Cancer

Concrete cancer occurs when steel reinforcement bars (rebar) within concrete begin to rust. The corrosion process is usually triggered by moisture ingress, oxygen, and chlorides through cracks or poor-quality concrete. As rebar rusts, it expands, causing the surrounding concrete to crack, spall, and weaken. When left untreated, this deterioration can lead to significant structural damage and even failure.

The Hydro Demolition Advantage

Hydro demolition, also known as hydro blasting, is an effective method for treating concrete cancer. Hydroblasting contractors use high-pressure water jets to target and remove damaged concrete while preserving unaffected material. Here’s why hydro demolition is particularly suited for treating concrete cancer:

1. Precision: Hydro demolition is a controlled process targeting deteriorated concrete sections only. This precision allows experts to conserve unaffected areas, reducing potential damage to embedded steel reinforcements. 

2. Efficient and Cost-effective: Using high-pressure water jets to remove concrete is quicker and more effective than traditional mechanical methods. This results in faster turnaround times, shorter project timelines, and reduced labour costs. 

3. Reduced Environmental Impact: Hydro demolition generates minimal dust and airborne particulates, making it a cleaner and more environmentally friendly option for treating concrete cancer. Hydroblasting is also quieter than traditional methods such as jackhammering, reducing noise pollution to surrounding communities. 

4. Structural Integrity: Hydro demolition stops concrete cancer in its tracks, preventing its spread to surrounding healthy materials. As this method produces much less vibration than mechanical solutions, hydro demolition works to protect remaining structures from further damage, protecting steel reinforcement and surrounding concrete integrity. 

   
   

Applying Hydro Demolition to Treat Concrete Cancer

Hydro demolition contractors apply this technique to combat concrete cancer in various structures and projects. Common use cases include: 

Bridge Rehabilitation

Bridges are particularly susceptible to concrete cancer due to their exposure to weather and de-icing salts. Hydro demolition efficiently removes damaged concrete from bridge decks, beams, and supports, preparing the surface for repairs and protective coatings.

Parking Garages

These structures often suffer from concrete cancer due to vehicle emissions and road salt exposure. Hydro demolition helps remove spalled concrete from columns, slabs, and walls, allowing for effective repairs and maintenance at minimal cost.

Industrial Facilities

In industrial settings, concrete cancer can compromise infrastructure safety and functionality. Hydro demolition effectively removes deteriorated concrete from floors, walls, and containment structures, ensuring safe and durable repairs.

Residential Buildings

For residential buildings, hydro demolition can address concrete cancer in balconies, foundations, and retaining walls, extending structure lifespan and improving occupant safety.

Case Study: Successful Hydro Demolition Project

A recent Water Jetting Solutions project involved rehabilitating a multi-storey parking garage suffering from severe concrete cancer. Upon inspection, traditional concrete removal methods were deemed impractical due to extensive damage and structural risks. Hydro demolition was the ideal method for this project and was chosen for its precision and minimal structural impact.

This hydro demolition project was successful, effectively removing spalled and deteriorated concrete to expose corroded rebar for treatment, cleaning, and re-coating. Our hydro demolition experts completed the project on time with minimal disruption to the surrounding area, demonstrating the technique’s effectiveness in addressing concrete cancer.

Why Hydro Demolition Is the Ultimate Choice for Your Concrete Cancer Removal Project

When treating concrete cancer, you want an effective solution that causes minimal disruptions. Hydro demolition is the ideal method for achieving just that. Consider this technique for: 

• Targeted Removal: Hydro demolition preserves structural integrity by targeting and removing damaged concrete only. 

• Reduced Downtime: It’s faster than most alternative concrete cancer removal methods, resulting in shorter repair times and reduced disruption to operations.

• Enhanced Safety: Hydroblasting minimises dust, noise, and vibration, creating a safer work environment for operators and nearby communities.

  
  

The Bottom Line

Hydro demolition represents a modern, efficient approach to addressing concrete cancer challenges. By leveraging the power of high-pressure water jets, this technique ensures precise, safe, and environmentally responsible concrete removal, paving the way for effective repairs and extended structural life.

Contact Water Jetting Solutions For All Your Concrete Cancer Removal Needs

For more information about using hydro demolition to combat concrete cancer in your structures, consult with the Water Jetting Solutions team. We’re industry experts and can assess your specific needs to provide tailored solutions that work for your project. Our hydro demolition services are versatile and effective, offering unparalleled precision, efficiency, and sustainability. Contact us with your concrete cancer challenges today.