Mapeis Underground Technology Team (UTT) have worked closely with local concrete supplier, Mapei UK, to contribute toward the successful completion of the new Tyne Tunnel. The tolled river crossing situated in North and South Tyneside has undergone a major transformation which included the construction of a second vehicle tunnel under the River Tyne. It was this new construction that featured Mapeis alkaline free, inorganic salt-based tunnelling accelerator Mapequick 043.
The first vehicular Tyne Tunnel was originally built in 1967 and has undergone a refurbishment to meet growing customer demand. The new tunnel, which has been completed by main design and build contractor Bouygues Travaux Publics, helps to serve the 45,000 customers per day.
Over 150,000 litres of Mapequick 043 was supplied for the construction of the tunnel. The use of Mapequick 043 enabled the concrete to attain early setting and strength properties after only a short curing time, even with the presence of water. Mapequick 043 mix was applied via a robotic spraying system ensuring a seamless waterproof tunnel lining. The use of Mapeis Mapequick 043 assisted in the overall completion of the tunnel being ahead of schedule.
Mapequick 043 is suitable for application by both wet-mix and dry-mix spraying system and thanks to it acceleration properties and absence of alkali, it is particularly suitable for spraying high quality concrete after a very short (0-60 minutes) or long (> 24 hours) curing time.
Mapei offers an extensive range of underground, concrete repair and structural strengthening products. A specification service is offered to Architects, Designers and Contractors while expert advice is also offered by Mapeis Technical Services Department. For further product information and literature please contact Mapei on 0121 508 6970 or info@mapei.co.uk. Technical data sheets can be found at www.mapei.co.uk.