Brief
Explore the transformative role of magnesium oxide admixtures in ensuring the integrity of the U.S. water facilities. Delve into the challenges faced, recent legislative measures, and real-world success stories.
Insight
The importance of water stored in the U.S. reservoirs, dams, and treatment plants cannot be understated, especially considering the growing drought conditions leading to significant water losses.
It’s imperative for communities to trust in the safety of these facilities, ensuring no contaminants seep into our drinking water or local waterways. Currently, the U.S. houses approximately 153,000 public drinking water systems and over 16,000 publicly owned wastewater treatment units. Astonishingly, over 80% of the U.S. population gets their potable water from these systems.
However, many facilities, having served for decades, now require upgrades or replacements. Furthermore, certain regions with booming populations are considering constructing new facilities or expanding the existing ones. A common challenge faced by these concrete structures is the shrinkage in their walls. This shrinkage can lead to cracks, allowing water leakage or contaminant seepage.
One effective solution to this problem is the use of magnesium oxide admixtures. This method has shown promise in reducing the risk of cracks or even preventing them altogether. Shrinkage in concrete is primarily caused by drying and autogenous shrinking, which is further aggravated in wastewater treatment due to suspended solid materials.
By incorporating magnesium oxide admixtures in the concrete of water structures, it’s possible to significantly reduce shrinkage cracking, with reductions up to 90% observed in some instances.
Supporting the enhancement of the nation’s water storage systems is the 2022 Bi-Partisan Infrastructure bill. This legislation, paired with the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, allocates billions towards water projects, with an emphasis on drought resilience.Three water containment projects showcase the advantages of using magnesium oxide admixtures:
- A southeast U.S. water treatment plant managed to exceed the 0.035% shrinkage limit using the admixture.
- A facility in an eastern U.S. city significantly reduced cracking problems in a new wastewater treatment plant by using the admixture.
- A Newport News, Virginia, water treatment facility utilised the admixture to meet strict low shrinkage requirements.
With recent legislation pushing for billions in investments for infrastructure improvement, incorporating magnesium oxide admixtures in water facility projects can ensure longer lifespan and enhanced performance for decades to come.
Highlight
- Currently, the U.S. houses approximately 153,000 public drinking water systems and over 16,000 publicly owned wastewater treatment units.
- A common challenge faced by these concrete structures is the shrinkage in their walls. This shrinkage can lead to cracks, allowing water leakage or contaminant seepage.
- By incorporating magnesium oxide admixtures in the concrete of water structures, it’s possible to significantly reduce shrinkage cracking, with reductions up to 90% observed in some instances.
READ MORE
Recent Comments