BHP Kalgoorlie Concentrator Shed – Positive protection for challenged concrete

Kalgoorlie and the Challenges for Mining Infrastructure

Concrete infrastructure in the mining industry is subject to two particular groups of challenges:

• Environmental – the extremes of weather and temperature in many of the locations where the sites are situated;
• Industrial – the acids and hypersaline fluids which are often a byproduct of the processes.

Protection from within

For this particular project, a new build, hydrogel admixture was selected for waterproofing and durability. Protecting the concrete within, from the first day, is the best approach for creating a structure that will last for years to come.

MARKHAM concrete hydrogel admixture offers superior protection against harsh chemical attacks and corrosion caused by the processing of lithium.

This admixture is added to the concrete mixture during the construction of the foundation, where it works to enhance the durability of the concrete, providing a long-lasting solution that is resistant to wear and tear. It is an excellent example of how modern technology can be used to create structures that are both robust and efficient.

Protection from without

Additionally, the construction team opted to use an advanced spray-applied hydrogel treatment. This was also utilised at the construction phase, to prevent cracking and ensure long-lasting protection. The high-performance concrete treatment penetrates deeply into the surface, providing a reliable barrier against moisture, chloride attack, and other harmful substances.

“Belt and Braces”

Overall, the combination of admixture and penetrating spray-applied treatment provides a reliable and effective way to protect the concrete and reinforcing steel of the structure. Together, they create a unique and effective solution for concrete structures that require maximum protection against chemical attacks and other environmental factors.

This is our INFRA-TECT^® system, for holistic protection of concrete infrastructure from the outset.

Looking for more learnings on this topic? Try our on-demand webinar, “Concrete Protection in the Mining Industry“.