NASA

Location: Cape Canaveral, Florida

Structure: Kennedy Space Center, Rocker Panel Base, Launch Pad 39

Problem

The Rocker panel base of Launch Pad 39A was experiencing severe concrete deterioration from exposure to a combination of corrosive atmospheric chlorides and fuel emission potassium percolate producing hydrochloric acid effluent from the shuttles rocket combustion system. Surface deterioration combined with wearing and cracking was allowing water to leak though the panel base to a tunnel below. Also, advanced corrosion of the imbedded steel in the structure and chloride contamination was contributing to the demise of the structure

Solution

To arrest further deterioration and corrosion, SURTREAT® formulations were applied to improve the chemical and physical properties of the concrete. The formulations that were chosen for this project inhibit deterioration and improve durability and longevity of the structure.

SURTREAT® Solutions

• Substantially reduces porosity

• Elevates and controls pH

• Reacts with concrete to purge and stabilize contaminants (chlorides)

• Increases compressive strength

• Increases hardness

• Increases surface adhesion

• Converts ferrous oxide (rust) into hard inert shell

• Re-passivates white steel to half further corrosion

• Resists attack and penetration by acids, effluents, salts, and other contaminants

Demolition and removal of spalled and delaminated concrete took place before the application. Once the area was cleaned, application of SURTREAT TPS II and TPS IV commenced. A special formulation was also used in designated repair areas to convert the ferrous oxide (rust) into a hard inert shell.

Once the first application was completed, repairs to the spalled areas were made and a final application of formulations was made to the newly placed repairs.

The specified results of the project were met, and the project was completed on time.