Ambex Concrete Technologies Inc. develops and improves products to ensure structural integrity, durability Canadian Design and Construction Report special feature Ambex Concrete Technologies Inc. co-owner Danis Longpre says the company's goal is to develop and im- prove products to ensure the durability and the structural integrity of concrete structures. “Over the past years, products and repair methods have evolved to meet the challenges for sustainable con- crete repairs for example, corrosion protection, resist- ance to freeze-thaw cycles and de-icing salts (especially here in Canada), fast-track construction and other chal- lenges,” he says. Longpre says a systematic approach must be used to evaluate problems and develop durable repairs. He says five basic criteria must be understood to achieve durable concrete repair: what must be repaired (scope of work); why (cause of deterioration); where (availability of materials and accessibility of work area); when (seasonal or functional restrictions); and who (con- tractor expertise and qualified manpower). “In short,” he says, “investigate, design and repair with suitable methods and materials. Experience com- bined with good judgement is the key to durable con- crete repairs.” Danis says concrete repair is both an art and a science and the worst outcome is a repair that doesn't last. “Over 50 per cent of concrete repairs fail again within five years. That is not a track record that inspires confi- dence.” In contrast, he says Ambex has provided durable products with a proven track record over the last 23 years in the concrete repair industry. “Ambex supplies engineered products for the repair, restoration and preservation of concrete,” he says. “A complete line of products is offered: polyurethane and epoxy grouts for crack injection, a range of grouting and shotcrete equipment, sealers and coatings to seal and protect concrete, a cementitious anchoring system for post-installed rebar and dowels, and a wide range of quality specialized cementitious bagged products.” Danis says Ambex works to answer its customer’s needs and develop appropriate durable solutions for specific projects using a customized service approach. Canadian-owned Ambex belongs to the ICRI (Interna- tional Concrete Repair Institute) and the company's prod- ucts are approved by numerous government agencies, municipalities and consulting engineers. For more information, visit ambexcorp.com. The Canadian Design and Construction Report — Winter 2014 – 51