Performance of selected polyurethane joint sealants in concrete structures

Abstract

Often underestimated and neglected, joint sealants in concrete structures play an important role in protecting the structure against its premature deterioration. The focus of the presented paper lays upon the issue of sealing of joints in concrete structures. Concrete is one of the most difficult materials to seal since there are always small particles of dust and the material itself. In this paper, the joint will be viewed as traditional expansion joint. Two representatives of flexible one component polyurethane sealants were selected. The main reason for this selection was that conventional repair materials are usually very rigid and easily incline towards the formation of cracks and gaps. The aim of this paper is not only to verify the suitability of selected materials but also to demonstrate that polyurethane sealants might be a better and long-lasting solution for filling of joints and patching of cracks within concrete structures.