Autogenous Healing Limits
Autogenous Healing Limits
(OP)
A concrete tank was hydro-tested, damp spots appeared along the entire circumference of the exteranl base of the tank. A few spots built up enough water to trickle to the trenchs. The contractor states that this is normal and will disappear within 30 days as the concrete hydrates. The tank and foundation it sets on have been finished for 2 months prior to the test. A 6" water stop is in the foundation keyway.
Is there enough information here to state that autogenous healing will take care of the minor cracks causing these "damp spots"? From what I've read there isn't a lot of research on this topic. Any help/advice is appreciated.
Is there enough information here to state that autogenous healing will take care of the minor cracks causing these "damp spots"? From what I've read there isn't a lot of research on this topic. Any help/advice is appreciated.





RE: Autogenous Healing Limits
RE: Autogenous Healing Limits
However, in my case damp spots are disappearing and cracks healing (up to 0.2 mm, you can actually see cristalization inside the crack with a crack microscope) although depending on the location and problem it took quite a bit of time (up to a couple of months). I agree with DaveMinter, it seems to depend on the concrete (ours is low w/c and fly ash). It also seem to depend on the mineral content of the water and water pressure. If there is no more than a water trickle, most likely it will seal, if there is a lot of water flow it might not.
We used a couple of waterproofing products but I am not totaly sold on them.
Good luck with your water tank!
RE: Autogenous Healing Limits
or The Concrete Society Advice Note, Autogenous healing: The self sealing of fine cracks
RE: Autogenous Healing Limits
It is a trade off between waiting to use the tank and getting it in service.