Hydrofluoric acid is a highly toxic but essential component in the nuclear industry.  In the event of a breach in a hydrofluoric acid storage tank, a vital element to contain spillage is a series of concrete bunds which also assist clean-up operations and prevent environmental pollution.

Hydrofluoric acid is a highly toxic but essential component in the nuclear industry.  In the event of a breach in a hydrofluoric acid storage tank, a vital element to contain spillage is a series of concrete bunds which also assist clean-up operations and prevent environmental pollution.

After a successful laboratory test program , the client selected the following solution with all application being carried out by Corroserve. The concrete was allowed to age and cure prior to full surface preparation then the following coating system applied.

Polyglass WCP concrete primer – applied at 100 microns to seal and stabilise the substrate.

Graphite S – applied at 350-500 microns to allow spark testing after the work is completed.

Polyglass VEF – applied at 1500 microns to give superior resistance to chemical attack.

Veilcote VEF as a sealer coat applied at 300-500 microns.

A small fillet of Corrocoat VE and a layer of multi-directional laminate were applied to all wall/floor joints to ensure the system would retain high tensile strength in those areas should the bunds be flexed by an external force.

Several lining options were open to the facility operator but by involving Corroserve at the design stage, we were able to give careful thought to the specialised needs of the project and make use of the latest coating technologies.  The client now has a high performance system that will require minimum maintenance, thus delivering reduced lifetime costs.