Fosroc - Fighting back against the water

Fosroc UK have launched a new initiative following the devastation caused by the recent floods.

Following previous success at schemes like Bewdley (pictured) in 2004 Fosroc have begun a new campaign, led by Laura Beveridge, to raise awareness of how our product solutions can help fight back against the rising water across the country.  Twelve years on the defences in one of the UK most challenging areas are still holding strong.  This is how it was achieved...

Following the disastrous floods of autumn 2000, plans were put forward for a working flood defence along Severnside North, followed by the larger Severnside South section in 2004. The flood defence system selected uses ‘demountable’ posts which are bolted onto permanent steel base plates, level with the paving, when there is a risk of flooding.

When river levels are within normal limits, these base plates are the only visible sign of the defence. The steel plates are set into the top of an underground waterproof floodwall built within the quayside. Once erected, aluminium planks fitted with rubber seals are slotted into the posts.

Fosroc worked alongside Volker Stevin/Birse on the Severnside South scheme supplying Conbextra EPR, Paveroc and Thioflex 600. The steel base plates for the demountable flood defence barriers required a grout that would be resistant to the extreme pressures of flooding, including local drainage and foul sewage and water which can be a problem during flood events.

Conbextra EPR was chosen because of resistance to repetitive dynamic loads, high compressive, tensile and flexural strengths and resistance to a wide range of chemicals. Paveroc, high performance reinstatement mortar was used for repairs to the existing concrete pathways and trafficked areas, with Thioflex 600 a polysulfide sealant. 

Construction work was completed in time for the flood defence barriers to be tested when river levels rose in November 2005 and on further occasions since. The resilience of the Fosroc products used will ensure that the defence system remains secure, despite the environmental impact of severe flood conditions.