The Benefits of Hydrocarbon-Resistant Concrete

When constructing, developing or redeveloping a premises where fuels are present, it’s important to plan ahead for the specific hazards and implications of your build site and those particular fuels. When concrete is involved, you need to take steps to avoid exposure to harmful elements which could cause premature wearing, erosion and weakening.

In this article, we’re focusing on a specialty concrete mix: hydrocarbon-resistant concrete, outlining what it is and its benefits.

What are hydrocarbons?

A hydrocarbon is a compound made of carbon and hydrogen, and is a primary component of a number of fuels, including petrol, oil and diesel.

Hydrocarbons can present a direct threat to the durability and strength of freshly poured concrete, as it interferes with the overall water content of a mix. This means that concentrated hydrocarbons can sabotage a concrete construction from its inception, rendering it unable to support loads or perform any reliable structural role.

How can hydrocarbon-resistant concrete help?

When using concrete to build a structure on land that may be contaminated with hydrocarbon fuels, it is the pouring and curing process where the mix is most at risk of exposure and contamination. By using a hydrocarbon-resistant concrete mix, you protect the concrete from contamination, preventing the water content from being affected, and thus the hydration process can carry on as normal.

Without a specific hydrocarbon-resistant mix, the hydration process will be severely handicapped, and the concrete will harden without gaining its full potential strength. This can lead to abrasion, erosion, cracking and fracturing in the future. Hydrocarbon-resistant concrete is a safeguard. It protects concrete structures from initial pouring right through to the end of the curing process and beyond.

Where should hydrocarbon-resistant concrete be used?

Brownfield sites often have soil contamination of hydrocarbons, as will specific fuel-based premises including:

• Petrol stations
• Garages and car workshops
• Refineries

Before construction begins, it’s essential that you survey the site to identify hydrocarbon contamination. If there seems to be a risk, then you need to factor in the use of a hydrocarbon-resistant concrete mix to ensure the structure being built will be as strong, stable and durable as possible.

Where can I get hydrocarbon-resistant concrete?

Total Concrete can supply hydrocarbon-resistant concrete mixes thanks to our state-of-the-art batching plant — based in Woking. For commercial and industrial clients looking to construct on a brownfield site or redevelop a premises where hydrocarbon fuel is present, we can tailor a mix to suit your requirements.

With prompt delivery of specialty concrete mixes — including hydrocarbon-resistant concrete, Total Concrete are your dependable concrete suppliers working throughout the Surrey and Hampshire regions. To find out more about our services, simply contact our friendly team today.