The official October 2023 commissioning of the first reactor unit of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant in Büyükeceli, Turkey, opens a new chapter in energy security for Turkey. The Penetron System of crystalline concrete waterproofing solutions was specified to protect below-grade and exposed concrete structures from high groundwater levels and exposure to the plant’s water-cooling system.
Located on the southern coast of Turkey (Mersin Province) on the Mediterranean Sea, the approximately US$ 20 billion Akkuyu nuclear power plant is being built by Atomstroyexport (ASE) and TSM-ICTAS. When completed, the plant will comprise four water-water energetic (VVER) 1,200 MW reactors, for a total plant capacity of 4,800 MW. Construction began in 2018; the second reactor unit is scheduled for completion in 2024, the 3rd reactor unit in 2025, and the 4th reactor unit in 2026.
“Once Akkuyu is running at full capacity, the plant’s total output is expected to generate around 10% of Turkey's electricity,” explains Haluk Taylan, Director, Penekim, the official Penetron distributor for Turkey.
The Penetron System, including PENETRON and PENECRETE MORTAR, was topically applied on the reinforced concrete structures of the plant’s foundations, wastewater pumping stations, water-cooling station, and shore pumping station to protect the below-grade and exposed structures from high groundwater levels and the plant’s cooling water.
“The Penetron System, a proven waterproofing system, was specified to provide absolute protection for all reinforced concrete structures exposed to the Akkuyu site’s groundwater and high radiation levels,” adds Haluk Taylan. “In addition to permanent resistance to water ingress and chemical penetration into the concrete, an additional benefit is a significant reduction in gamma radiation in case of an accident.”
Topically applied to prepared concrete surfaces, PENETRON and PENECRETE MORTAR quickly become an integral part of the concrete and last for the life of the concrete. They also provide self-healing capabilities to permanently seal any hairline cracks that form in the concrete.
“The plant constructors are very pleased with the ease of use and effectiveness of the Penetron System in Turkey’s showcase energy project,” says Haluk Taylan. “Demanding and complex projects like Akkuyu confirm the value and effectiveness of our crystalline technology.”
Durable foundation by Penetron: Once the Akkuyu nuclear power plant is running at full capacity, the plant’s total output is expected to generate around 10% of Turkey's electricity.
