Runway Rapid Repair
Application of microfine cement in Runway Rapid Repair (RRR)
Runways are exposed to constant wear and tear from airplanes, weather and other factors. Over time, they may develop damage such as potholes, cracks, spalls or joint.
However, conventional cement-based grouts have limitations in penetrating into fine-medium sands, finer soils and micro-cracks in the runway pavement. Therefore, there is a need for alternative materials that can provide better permeability, strength and durability for runway repair.
Microfine cement is a Portland cement-based grouting material composed of microfine particles with a specific surface area of more than 800 m²/kg. As a grout, it has excellent properties such as low viscosity, high fluidity, rapid setting and good compatibility with admixtures. Microfine cement can be used for various applications such as concrete crack injection, rock injection, soil injection and curtain grouting.
Grouting methods
Step 1: Assess the damage and prepare the surface
The first step is to identify and mark the areas that need repair on the runway. You can use chalk, paint or tape to outline the boundaries of the damaged areas. You should also measure the depth and width of the damage to estimate the amount of microfine cement needed.
Next, you need to clean and dry the surface of the runway. You can use a broom, a vacuum or compressed air to remove any dust, dirt or debris from the surface. You should also remove any loose or deteriorated concrete using a hammer, a chisel or a grinder.
Finally, you may need to apply a primer to the surface before applying the microfine cement. A primer is a thin layer of liquid that improves the adhesion and bonding of the microfine cement to the substrate.
Step 2: Mix and apply the microfine cement
Selecting the appropriate microfine cement product and admixture for your specific application and climate conditions. There are different types standard microfine cement products available in Kangjing, such as Panlong Mountain® MFPC800, MFPC1000, MFPC1250, MFPC2000. Each product has different partical size and specifications that suit different needs and situations.
Use clean water that is free of impurities or contaminants. You should also use a suitable mixing equipment that can handle high-speed mixing without creating lumps or air bubbles in the grout. Click here to contact our engineer to get the mixing ratios according different condition.
After mixing the grout, apply it to the damaged areas on the runway using a suitable application method. There are different methods of applying microfine cement grout depending on the type and size of damage. Some of these methods are:
Trowel: This method involves using a hand-held tool with a flat blade to spread and smooth the grout over small or shallow areas.
Pump: This method involves using a mechanical device that forces the grout through a hose and nozzle into narrow or deep areas.
Step 3: Finish and cure the microfine cement
Cure the microfine cement surface after applying it to the runway. Finishing involves smoothing and leveling the surface using a trowel or a broom to create a uniform and consistent appearance.
Curing involves allowing the microfine cement to harden and gain strength over time. The setting and curing times depend on the type of product and admixture used, as well as the ambient temperature and humidity.
During curing, you should protect the microfine cement from moisture loss, traffic or other factors that may affect its quality or performance. You can use various methods of protection, such as:
* Spraying water: This method involves spraying water over the surface at regular intervals to keep it moist and prevent cracking.
* Applying curing compound: This method involves applying a liquid that forms a film over the surface that reduces moisture loss and increases durability.
* Covering with plastic sheet: This method involves covering the surface with a plastic sheet that prevents moisture loss and protects from external factors.
You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for choosing and using the protection method.
Microfine cement is a great solution for runway repair that offers many benefits over ordinary Portland cement, such as its excellent penetration, rapid setting, durability and compatibility with most admixtures. If you want to try microfine cement for your own runway repair needs, you can contact us. We have many successful projects or applications that have used microfine cement for runway repair.
