Case Studies
Concrete Protection and Repair of a Chemical Neutralisation Wastewater Pit with ARC 988
Challenge
Background
Concrete damage was identified in a wastewater pit at a paper mill. Replacing the wastewater system was not feasible due to budget constraints and regulatory requirements, so a repair solution was needed that could effectively restore the damaged areas with minimal downtime.
Root Cause
Concrete exposed to the elements—including the hydrochloric acid inlet—had suffered significant deterioration due to rain, exhaust gases, and routine wash downs. In addition, cracks allowed water ingress, raising concerns about ongoing corrosion and further damage from freeze–thaw cycles during winter.
Left: Normal operation (full). Right: Repaired area with the tank drained.
Solution
Conventional repair materials lacked the chemical resistance required around the hydrochloric acid inlet. ARC 988 provides excellent chemical resistance, can be applied in thick layers, and is suitable for localised repairs.
Application Highlights
- Damaged and weakened concrete was thoroughly removed to ensure proper adhesion. In this case, repair extended to areas where reinforcing steel had corroded.
- ARC 988 was applied at a thickness of approximately 6mm during vertical application to prevent sagging while achieving the required build.
Surface after removing moss, sand, and debris with a high-pressure washer (Equipment used: Tsurumi Pump HPJ-5ESM-2, 7.8 MPa, 21.2 L/min).
Results
After 24 months, the repair remains in excellent condition, including around the hydrochloric acid inlet, with no functional issues observed.
Due to its significantly improved durability over conventional mortar repairs, the customer also commissioned ARC 988 for adjacent wall repairs.
Levelled with rapid-setting mortar and protected with ARC 988 1 kit, ~3 m², 3-person crew, 2 days.
About Us
Chesterton® is a world leader in helping process industry companies and manufacturers improve the reliability and efficiency of their rotating, stationary, and fluid power equipment platforms. We are known across a wide range of industries for our award-winning pump and valve sealing solutions, applications expertise, equipment maintenance and wear-prevention products, and knowledgeable hands-on local service. Chesterton product range includes mechanical seals, packing and gaskets, industrial lubricants and coatings.
® Registered trademark owned by A.W. Chesterton Company
APAC0123. Issued 03/2026
Technical data reflects results of laboratory tests and is intended to indicate general characteristics only. A.W. Chesterton Company disclaims all warranties expressed or implied, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Liability, if any, is limited to product replacement only. Any images contained herein are for general illustrative or aesthetic purposes only and are not intended to convey any instructional, safety, handling, or usage information or advice respecting any product or equipment. Please refer to relevant Safety Data Sheets, Product Data Sheets, and/or Product Labels for safe use, storage, handling, and disposal of products, or consult with your local Chesterton sales representative.