Testing a polymer concrete coating for dry and wet concrete and clay brick wastewater facilities

Deteriorating sewer facilities require rapid in-situ rehabilitation and using coating as a corrosion protection is one method currently being adopted. Hence, applicability and performance of coatings under dry and wet conditions must be investigated. Performance of a polymer concrete coating was evaluated using a combination of full scale and laboratory tests. The polyester based polymer concrete coating had a density of 1.75 g/cm(3) (109 lb/ft(3)) and a hardness in the range of 38 to 45 (Barcol hardness). Full-scale test on coating applicability and performance on concrete substrate was performed under a hydrostatic pressure of over 103 kPa (15 psi) of water, simulating the groundwater condition. Coated concrete cylinders and clay bricks with holidays (pinholes) were used to study the chemical resistance under acidic environments to represent the worst sewer and accelerated test conditions (ASTM G 20). Bonding strength between the coating and the concrete and clay brick substrates were determined using the modified ASTM D 4541 and ASTM C 321 tests. Performance of the polymer concrete coating material was studied for over 3 years and the results are analyzed to determine the performance of the polymer concrete coating.