Durajoint ® Concrete Accessories
10426 Industrial Drive
Garrettsville, Ohio 44231
Toll Free:
1-888-833-8308
Direct:
1-330-527-4308
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1-888-833-8778
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RESULTS:
Long-Term, Continuous Submersion Tests of Hydrophilic Compounds
Test Scope:
To measure the comparative changes in volume and weight of EXPAND-Tite and a clay-based, traditional hydrophilic compound following long-term, continuous submersion in water.
Testing Method:
Same-size (3/4”H
X 1”W X 4”L) samples of the two hydrophilic compounds
were fully immersed in water for the specified periods of time.
Evaluation Methods:
Each specimen was evaluated by both quantitative and qualitative standards.
Quantitative Standards:
The volumetric change standard was based on measuring dimensional changes over the period of exposure. The weight change standard was based on weighing each specimen and recording any gains or losses at specified intervals.
Qualitative Standards:
The qualitative standards for both volumetric and weight changes were the same, with each being based on observable changes in the overall appearance of the test specimens at various intervals.
Quantitative Results:
Following 84 days of
long-term exposure to total submersion…
The clay-based sample…
…more than tripled its volume, increasing by 271.26%
…more than doubled its weight, increasing by 145.21%
The EXPAND-Tite sample…
…increased its volume by only 66.68% and its weight by just
50.07%.
Qualitative Results:
Our evidence shows that significant increases in volume and weight (such as that registered by the clay-based product) result in excessive swelling, splintering, cracking and the eventual deterioration of the product.
Test Conclusion:
Excessive swelling, splintering, cracking and deterioration can cause changes in the size and the physical properties of the sealant. This could lead to excess pressure on the joint, followed by the eventual deterioration of the product and the loss of joint integrity.
Table Of Quantitative
Results Of Long-Term Submersion Tests
Based On Laboratory Measurements Of Changes In Volume And
Weight Of Identically-Sized Samples
(1) After
7 days, cracks formed in the clay-based product along the edges of both
ends.
(2) After 28 days, cracks continued to form in the clay-based product
along all edges, sides and both ends.
(3) After 42 days, all cracks in the clay-based product became larger.
Splinters of sealant began to flake off in the cracked areas.
(4) After 84 days, all cracks in the clay-based product continued to enlarge
with more splintering occurring. Pieces of the sealant continued to flake
off in the cracked areas.
(5) EXPAND-Tite showed no cracking or other visible signs of deterioration.
The only change in the product’s appearance was related to the swelling
due to its hydrophilic properties.