Korean companies develop rain-resistant concrete

[Courtesy of Sampyo Industry]

South Korean companies have developed a new concrete product that maintains its strength and quality even when poured in rainy conditions. This innovation is expected to address one of the main causes of poor construction quality associated with concrete pouring during rain.

Sampyo Industry announced on Wednesday that it has completed BLURCON Rain OK, a concrete specifically designed for rainy weather conditions.

This product was developed over six months from November last year to April this year, in partnership with four major construction companies: Hyundai Engineering & Construction, HDC Hyundai Development Company, Hyundai Engineering, and GS Engineering & Construction.

According to Sampyo Industry, this is the first time in Korea that such a technology has been developed, distinct from existing underwater concrete products.

Sampyo Industry‘s BLURCON Rain OK

Pouring concrete during rain typically leads to a decrease in strength, durability, and overall quality due to water interference, which can result in severe construction accidents.

Sampyo Industry focused on eliminating concerns related to insufficient concrete compressive strength.

The key feature of Rain OK is its anti-washout technology. To enhance resistance to material separation during rain (up to 5mm per hour), the product uses admixtures and optimized concrete materials, achieving higher viscosity compared to standard concrete.

This technology improves self-compacting properties with a minimized use of plate compacting and adhesion to reinforcing bars.

The anti-washout admixture, containing water-soluble polymers, imparts viscosity to the concrete, preventing the separation of cement and aggregate even when subjected to washing actions by water.

Tests have confirmed that Rain OK also achieves higher compressive strength compared to conventional products.