For issues with edge lifter linking rebars not getting the full cover that engineers want, it is possible to minimise the steel cover in areas for concrete elements that will be exposed to extreme acid or alkaline for certain critical infrastructure projects.
However this is all very dependent on the size of the aggregate being used in the concrete and whether any steel or synthetic fibres have been used in the matrix, as moisture will travel through absorptive stone and long fibres.
The fact that CLEVA-Crete enhanced concrete makes the mortar extremely impermeable in concrete precast elements, piers and footings, some stakeholders in the industry are working with 10-12mm cover, especially where edge lifters are involved in structural elements.
In rheology, when using 5 to 7mm aggregate and no fibres, many involved in cellars, car parks and pools are reducing steel cover.
CLEVA-Crete 842 RP is specifically designed for where you have many low cover areas in precast or if you are pouring deep foundation piles where you know that integrity of steel around perimeter spacers could be compromised while being lowered into position, or going into aggressive environments.
CLEVA-Crete 842 RP is specifically designed as a reo protection product, hence the RP.
While such concrete is in its plastic stage there is a chemical reaction that takes place, permanently coating steel with a reo protection chemical and thereby double the life expectancy of the steel’s integrity due to the RP factor.
