With precast concrete now being offered in a variety of forms, patterns and finishes, there is increasing demand for a material that will protect the façade.

Radcrete Pacific says it can provide the optimal solution with its Radcon Formula No 7, a colourless sub-surface membrane for waterproofing and protection of structural concrete. 
“Precast structures now facilitate the creative flair of architects and raise new challenges for design specifications. With constant innovation under way, precast concrete is becoming a leading material in modern construction, given its increasing versatility, fast installation and cost efficiency,” says Andrea Kozkova, a marketing executive for the Australia-based company.  “Some of the benefits of using precast concrete include low VOC (volatile organic content) emissions as well as resistance characteristics, such as to fire, impact and some level of natural disasters. Moreover, technological advancements in the manufacturing process and mix design developments mean precast concrete minimises its impact on the environment compared to other construction materials.
She continues: “The flexibility of form, however, raises some complex challenges in panel design and façade waterproofing detailing. When it comes to the protection of facades, some treatments are more suitable than others. Crystal growth admixtures are not suitable for above-grade areas, mainly due to expansion forces in the concrete, which result in cracking and exposure to thermal stress. Hence, the durability of concrete durability is in question. With more and more sophisticated textures and patterns appearing, surface treatments are also out of the equation, as they often interfere with the colouring and finishes of the façades.”
“In our experience, Radcon has proved to be the most cost-effective solution for precast projects as it guarantees lifetime concrete protection and a significant increase in durability of the structure,” claims Michael Rorke, general manager of Radcrete, which distributes the product worldwide.
“It is also non-toxic and fully biodegradable, and therefore complements the sustainability features of precast structures,” he adds.
Radcon Formula No 7 is sprayed directly on the concrete surface, has a 20 mm depth of penetration and forms a gel-like barrier with the ability to re-seal future hairline cracks on contact with water.