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Dow Chemical Company selected Wagman as one of a few initial licensees to furnish and install Latex Modified Concrete in 1974. This relationship along with our more recently established relationship with BASF has significantly contributed to Wagman’s emergence as the leading expert in Latex Modified Concrete.
Latex Modified Concrete, primarily used as a thin bonded overlay to protect bridge decks and parking structures, has been described as the "ideal repair material." As Latex Modified Concrete cures, the polymer forms internal plastic films which result in the following improved characteristics:
- Low Permeability
The internal plastic films reduce penetration of moisture and chloride ions, improving freeze-thaw resistance and protecting reinforcing steel from corrosion.
- Low Modulus of Elasticity
The modulus of elasticity of LMC is 15% lower than conventional concrete, making it less brittle and more flexible. This allows it to withstand stresses that can cause premature cracking and delamination.
- Bond
The bond strength of LMC usually will exceed the strength of the base concrete when applied to a properly prepared surface.
- Durability
The abrasion tests revealed that LMC outperformed conventional concrete by 19-32% depending upon the particular test performed. While early estimates predicted that LMC overlays may have a service life of 20 years, many of the original overlays constructed in 1974 are still in service today.
 I-95 Bridges
Wagman crews apply Latex Modified Concrete on 22 bridge decks of I-95 from the north end of the Ft. McHenry Tunnel to I-895 in Baltimore County, MD. At project completion, Wagman will have placed more than 6,000 CY of LMC.
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“Starting in the 1970s Wagman was appointed an original Dow Modifier A licensed contractor for providing Latex Modified Concrete mixtures to bridge deck overlays. Wagman received that appointment after extensive training in the proper scientifically proven methods of delivering LMC to the deck. That relationship has continued to flourish right up to today. Wagman remains a premiere material supplier and contractor recognized by Dow Reichhold as a qualified expert in the application of LMC.”
Doug Bennett
Manager Construction Products North America
Dow Reichhold Specialty Latex, LLC
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