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Structural Grouts and Grouting Techniques
George Evans from Cement and Concrete Institute (C&CI) gave the CSSA KZN Branch a presentation on Structural Grouts and Grouting Techniques on 19 June 2012, at the University of KZN.
This presentation provided a brief overview of the different types of (structural) grouts available and the various testing and installation techniques.
Points of interest raised:
- A grout is a binding or structural agent used in construction and engineering applications.
- Non cementitious grouts are comprised of various forms of silicates, acrylics, cationic organic-emulsions, resins and thermo-setting compounds to mention a few. These compounds react to produce a range of soft gels to hard matrixes to suit a wide range of applications.
- Cementitious grouts are typically a mixture of hydraulic cement and water, with or without fine aggregate and/or chemical modification, proportioned to produce a range of consistencies without segregation of constituents.
- Grouts are normally defined by their application and/or properties. Intrinsic properties of the grouting material would typically suit the application technique and long-term performance requirements.
- The performance of structural precision grout is largely dependent on the preparation, mixing, placement, and curing detail to obtain and to maintain the desired properties in both the plastic and hardened states.
- As most grouting applications are blind, an experienced grouter with a thorough understanding of the materials and its performance is required to ensure an adequately grouted void.
We thank George for coming through to Durban and sharing his extensive knowledge with us.
KZN Branch
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