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AUTHORIZED APPLICATORPENETRON penetrating crystalline waterproofing treats water from inside the concrete structure, instead of only forming a coating on the outside. ANTINCORP consults, supplies materials and organizes application according to the real conditions of each project.
Crystalline waterproofing is a method of treating leaks from inside a concrete structure. The material penetrates through the capillary network and reacts with moisture and components already present in the concrete to form insoluble crystals that seal the water paths. Unlike a membrane that only covers the outside, the protective layer sits inside the concrete. For products and quotations, see genuine PENETRON materials.
Concrete has a network of tiny capillaries. Water and chemicals travel through this network, causing leaks, corroding reinforcement and shortening the life of the structure.
PENETRON crystalline material contains active ingredients that react with moisture and the components already in the concrete to form insoluble crystals that fill capillaries and fine cracks. Water can still cause dampness again, but the leak path has been sealed over time.
Because the action happens inside the concrete, the waterproofing does not peel like a surface coating under reverse water pressure or light vibration.
| Criterion | Crystalline (PENETRON) | Waterproofing membrane |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Penetrates and forms crystals inside the concrete | Forms a film on the surface |
| Application side | Positive or negative side (per manufacturer) | Usually applied on the water-bearing side |
| If the surface is scratched | The waterproofing sits inside the concrete, so it is little affected | A torn or punctured membrane can lose effect locally |
| Surface requirement | Clean, rough, wetted to saturation | Usually needs a dry, flat substrate with primer |
| Large cracks, leak points | Treat first with PENECRETE MORTAR, PENEPLUG or injection | Also needs prior treatment, depending on membrane type |
A membrane forms a water barrier on the surface; crystals penetrate inside and seal the concrete’s capillaries. The two suit different locations, so a survey is needed before choosing. For concrete under constant water pressure such as basements and tanks, crystalline waterproofing is widely used.
It can. Crystalline material penetrates deep into concrete, so it can be applied on the inside of a basement or tank when the outside is not accessible. Effectiveness depends on the quality of the concrete and the accompanying treatment of cracks and joints.
The crystals can self-seal very fine cracks when moisture is present. Large or moving cracks must be opened and filled with repair mortar or injected before coating.
The type of work item (basement, tank, roof…), approximate area, photos of the current condition and the leak locations. ANTINCORP will survey and propose a suitable solution.
According to the manufacturer, the crystals become part of the concrete and can continue to react when moisture is present. Real durability also depends on the concrete quality, crack treatment and correct application.
For example, waterproofing and repair of a 4,320 m² wastewater treatment (WWTP) tank at the MEN CHUEN factory. Every project is surveyed before a solution is proposed.