Polyurethane foam is used for leveling and evening concrete in a variety of industries. Airports are one of the industries that features massive amounts of concrete spaces, including runways, sidewalks, terminals, parking garages, and more. If an airport runway has concrete damage, including settling, cracking, or surface irregularity, polyurethane foam can improve the operation of an airport. Instead of turning to traditional repair methods, learn how polyurethane can make your airport runways more durable in this blog.
Why An Airport Runway Settles
The constant tire traffic and heavy loads moving across the runways of an airport can wear down the concrete significantly. Even the most durable concrete applications can settle or fail after years of use. Here are some common reasons why an airport runway settles.
Vibration-induced compaction from the landing gear of aircraft is a common reason that concrete and soil can become unlevel along airport runways. The touchdown forces from a heavy aircraft will vibrate the entire runway, causing the soil underneath to deteriorate and alter the concrete structure. An uneven runway can be extremely dangerous for small and large airports, as it can make the landing more rough or cause an airplane to go off the runway.
Temperature fluctuations are another common reason that concrete becomes damaged in a residential or commercial setting. Thermal cycling will cause the concrete to curl or warp, which will cause even more soil erosion during vibration or heavy luggage loads each day. Climates that have large daily temperature fluctuations or seasonal extremes may experience thermal cycling damage, even on airport runways that are less utilized.
Drainage failures accelerate other concrete damage that is already occurring. Airports need to have sealants and proper surface drainage systems to prevent moisture problems and soil erosion. Polyurethane foam can help level out the concrete settling caused by drainage problems, but the drainage issues need to be addressed to prevent future damage in the future.
Leveling Concrete With Polyurethane Foam
Surface repair often won’t completely solve the problem with airport runways. While concrete used in commercial settings is durable, it won’t last forever, and the damage is often far beyond the surface of the runway. The high vibration, weight, and changing climate conditions will affect the land below the concrete, rather than just the surface, which is why you need a solution that is applied underneath the material. Applying the polyurethane foam underneath airport runways can even out the runway for more even landings and meet regulatory standards for aerospace settings.
Meeting Regulatory Standards
The FAA establishes the framework for airport concrete, including maintenance and repairs. Polyurethane injection qualifies under the established framework as it restores the pavement to FAA standards for structural capacity. These standards are put in place to help airports reach the 20-year structural life expectancy of concrete.
Speed Up Repair Process
Utilizing polyurethane foam also helps you avoid long-term shutdowns that could hurt your bottom line. Instead of surface repair construction that requires heavy equipment and multiple workers, polyurethane foam can help you avoid flight diversions and frustrated passengers. Applying the foam can be done in overnight windows to result in fewer schedule disruptions. Foam is easier to apply and sets quickly, getting your concrete back to pristine condition in no time.
How Long Does Polyurethane Foam Last?
Once polyurethane foam is applied, you may wonder how long airport runways will last before they need more repairs. Long-term data has shown that polyurethane doesn’t shrink or reduce even after years of exposure to chemicals, moisture, and heavy loads. Using foam to level out concrete can extend the life beyond the typical 20-year lifespan of concrete.
The foam’s chemical resistance makes it great for airport runways and commercial applications, allowing the airport runways to last for over 150 years. Polyurethane foam is applied deep beneath the concrete into the soil to ensure longer term stabalization. Airport runways won’t degrade over time when you invest in polyurethane foam, allowing more pilots, aircraft, and flyers to travel safely for years to come.
Commercial Applications From PolyFoam Solutions
PolyFoam Solutions makes lifting and leveling easy for homeowners and commercial business owners alike. If you notice uneven surfaces, cracks, or moisture damage, you can benefit from polyurethane foam applications. Utilizing foam makes small, virtually invisible holes in your concrete space to provide long-lasting durability and even walkways. Save yourself or your business thousands of dollars by working with our professional team at PolyFoam Solutions. Whether you need an application for your home patio or an airport runway, we are here to help. Schedule a service with us today!
Follow Us