The official July 2019 opening of the Edmundo Eluchans Plaza welcomed new homeowners and families to the modern residential complex in Reñaca, Chile. Penetron crystalline technology ensured the stunning views would remain unspoiled by any future concrete durability issues.
Once a tiny community with vacant sand beaches, Reñaca has grown into a lively party town – and administrative district of the city of Viña del Mar – that has become a popular beach and spa resort. Mainly a summer destination, Reñaca is flooded with surfers, swimmers and tourists.
The 18-floor Edmundo Eluchans Plaza residential complex is located in the attractive Bosques de Montemar neighborhood of Reñaca and overlooks the Pacific Ocean less than 1,200-feet (365 m) away. Each of the complex’s 191 units offers panoramic views of the Reñaca beaches, the Pacific Ocean and the nearby forests of Montemar. Available in two- and three-bedroom layouts (78-104 m² /860-1,145 square feet in size), all 191 apartments are finished with a high level of quality, including modern, integrated kitchens, nicely-appointed bathrooms, balconies, and thermal insulating windows.
The ground floor of the complex is comprised of a fitness gym, first aid office, a bike garage and three multi-purpose rooms; the open rooftop features a panoramic pool, whirlpools and two saunas, and barbeque areas with dining tables. Three underground levels provide sufficient parking for all residents, and green landscaped areas surround the development.
High Groundwater Levels & Hydrostatic Pressure
Because of the high groundwater levels at the seaside location, which is typical for the area, Absal, the project developer, and Claro Vicuña Valenzuela, the project contractor, wanted a waterproofing solution that would ensure the three underground levels of parking remain permanently dry. The hydrostatic pressure present at the depth of the parking garage structures was the main concern.
“Initially, a competitive crystalline solution was specified for the below-grade structures of the Edmundo Eluchans Plaza project,” explains Domingo Lema, Managing Director of Penetron Chile. “Our team reviewed the specific challenges of the construction site – and the concrete mix specifications – with the contractor.
Looking for a More Cost-Effective Solution
A comparison of PENETRON ADMIX with the specified competitive solution showed that the Penetron product would provide a more cost-effective waterproofing solution, as well as more effective permeability reduction and sealing of cracks during the life of the concrete. The engineers at Claro Vicuña Valenzuela adjusted the project specifications and switched to the Penetron solution.
Easily mixed in during batching, PENETRON ADMIX quickly becomes an integral part of the matrix thanks to a chemical reaction that generates a non-soluble crystalline formation throughout the pores and capillary tracts of the concrete. This formation permanently seals the micro-cracks, pores and capillaries against the penetration of water or liquids from any direction, even when exposed to the high hydrostatic pressure encountered at the Reñaca site.
Meeting Construction Deadlines
PENETRON ADMIX was used to treat 2,220 m3 (2,900 cubic yards) of concrete that was applied to the perimeter walls and foundation slabs of the basement structures of the complex.
“Our admixture enables simplified dosing and quick integration during batching, which helped the contractor keep to the construction deadline,” says Domingo Lema. “Now, everyone can enjoy the view from up here!”
Marine environment: The 18-floor Edmundo Eluchans Plaza residential complex in Reñaca, Chile, overlooks the Pacific Ocean less than 1,200-feet away. PENETRON ADMIX secured the basement structures.
Underground solution: High groundwater levels at the Reñaca construction site needed a waterproofing solution to protect three levels of underground parking. Penetron Chile provided the answer.
Penetron crystalline protection: The perimeter walls and foundation slabs of the concrete basement structures of the Edmundo Eluchans Plaza residential complex were treated with PENETRON ADMIX.
