Product Comparison

Hydrophobic Products

	PRAH-type Xypex vs. PRAN-type Hycrete Click here for more details about Xypex vs. Hycrete

For years, there has been much debate over which product will provide the best waterproofing of concrete and concrete structures.

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) recently finished a report on Permeability-Reducing Admixtures ("PRAs" - ACI 212.3R-10).

This report splits admixtures into two subcategorizes: PRAs for concrete which is not exposed to hydrostatic conditions (PRAN), and PRAs for concrete which is exposed to hydrostatic conditions (PRAH).

ACI's finding is that hydrophobic (PRAN) admixtures are only good for damp-proofing, not waterproofing of water-retaining structures. To waterproof water-retaining structures, below grade structures, tunnels, bridges, dams and aquatic centers you need to use a PRAH, or crystalline, product. Xypex is the leader in the PRAH category.

Hydrophobic pore blockers are only PRAN-type protection and are good for rain water repelling, improving the quality of pavers and blocks, and helping reduce efflorescence.

In section 15.2 of the report, ACI also explains how hydrophobic pore blockers do not bridge cracks, and that crystalline products do.

For a copy that section of the ACI report, follow this link: ACI 212.3R-10, Chapter 15.