Tech-Dry Masonry
In 1996, utilising nano-technology, our research scientists developed a silicone based admixture for the use in the manufacture of concrete masonry. It was discovered that the performance of this admixture greatly exceeded those of commonly used stearate and oleate based admixtures in the reduction of water absorption and efflorescence.
Initially, the introduction of this admixture into the market was greeted with some reluctance, but however due to the ever increasing problems with efflorescence and dampness in concrete masonry, it was gradually accepted. Since 2001, most block manufacturers within Australia have successfully implemented the use of this admixture in the production of concrete blocks, bricks, pavers and tiles. Its use has revolutionised the way concrete masonry is made water repellent and gas led to the development of Tech-Dry Masonry, that is, water repellent concrete masonry.
By specifying Tech-Dry Masonry some of the benefits that can be achieved are:
- Surfaces resist long term efflorescence and remain pristine
- Surfaces resist biological growth due to the masonry remaining dry
- Rising damp at the base of concrete walls is eliminated
- Appearances close to natural stone can be produced
- The building structure remains dry and is environmentally friendly as evaporation from damp external walls uses energy
- Erosion damage due to the effects of salt from sea spray or salt-chlorinated pools is eliminated
- Masonry remains dry and can be laid in wet weather
- Surfaces exhibit a clean, rather than oily appearance, which can be caused by oil-based admixtures
- Surfaces do not require periodic painting or maintenance reducing the lifetime costs of the building
- Colour-fast surfaces
- Innovative textures and contemporary colours
Now available is a Specification Folder with all the
information you require to specify Tech-Dry Masonry for your next project.
To request a copy of the Tech-Dry Masonry Specification Folder
click here.
You can also download a copy of the
Tech-Dry Masonry Specifications as a Word
Document.
Pre-sealing Technology
Concrete masonry with pre-sealing technology is manufactured with Tech-Dry innovative silicone admixtures. These admixtures significantly reduce water absorption, and hence reduce the possibility of efflorescence, mould or mildew staining. The scientific breakthrough of pre-sealing technology means that the silicone water repellent admixture incorporated during manufacture of the concrete product stays as an integral part of the concrete for its entire life.
Extensive testing has taken place on the performance of Tech-Dry pre-sealing technology. Click to view the results of the CSIRO and ABSAC reports.
Application
Pre-sealing technology is suitable for most concrete masonry including concrete blocks / bricks, pavers and pre-cast concrete products, which are widely used in architectural structures, residential properties, retaining walls, paving and commercial buildings.
Pre-sealing technology is also suitable for stabilised earth or rammed
earth building materials containing cement, this technology adds
significant value to environmentally friendly earth buildings.
Products
BLOCK EMULSION - A silicone admixture for dry-pressed concrete masonry including blocks, bricks and pavers
TECHDRYAD SUPER - A silicone admixture for wet-cast concrete including pre-cast concrete, fibre cement board and dry-pressed concrete masonry
SILIPELL - A silicone admixture for pressed concrete blocks or pavers, ready-mix concrete and pre-cast concrete or any other type of cementitious material.
PLASTICURE - A silicone admixture for stabilised earth or rammed earth building materials containing cement
MORTAR ADDITIVE - A water repellent admixture for mortar for laying concrete masonry made with Tech-Dry pre-sealing technology or as a general water resistant admixture for cement mortars or renders.