Final Testing Completed for 25-Million-Liter Concrete Tank at Braskem Site in Santo André
Final testing of a 25-million-liter (6.6 million-gallon) concrete firefighting water tank at Braskem‘s petrochemical manufacturing facility in Santo André, Brazil, was successfully completed in December 2024. Designed to ensure long-term durability, the tank was treated with the Penetron System—a crystalline waterproofing solution that enhances concrete performance by protecting it against constant exposure to water and moisture, according to a Penetron media release.
Supporting Thermoplastic Resin Production with Sustainable Infrastructure
Headquartered in São Paulo, Braskem is Latin America’s largest petrochemical producer. The company plays a large role in the global supply of thermoplastic resins, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Braskem also produces key chemicals such as ethylene, propylene, butadiene, benzene, toluene, chlorine, and solvents. In the United States, Braskem is the leading producer of polypropylene (PP).
To support fire safety measures at the Braskem plant in Mauá (Santo André), a region within the São Paulo metro area, the company constructed an on-site water storage solution. Previously, Braskem relied on Aquapolo to supply water from a treatment plant 17 kilometers away. The new on-site tank now provides critical water reserves for emergency fire protection in this facility, which handles highly flammable thermoplastic resins like PE, PP, and PVC.
Penetron System Selected for Durability and Heat Resistance
“When Penetron Brazil was invited to offer a waterproofing solution for the tank, the main challenge was convincing Braskem’s engineering team—accustomed to traditional membrane systems—that an integral crystalline admixture could deliver superior results,” said Cláudio Neves Ourives.
Beyond lower installation and maintenance costs compared to membrane systems, the Penetron System offered critical benefits such as sustainability, chemical resistance, and high-temperature performance—ideal for use in a petrochemical environment. The tank’s location within a thermoplastics plant producing polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC required a solution that could ensure long-term structural integrity in a high-risk environment.
Comprehensive Waterproofing with Penetron Products
The Penetron System was integrated throughout the tank structure:
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PENETRON ADMIX was added to over 4,300 m³ (5,600 yd³) of concrete.
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PENEBAR SW-55 waterstop strips sealed all construction joints.
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PENETRON crystalline slurry and PENECRETE MORTAR were used to seal tie holes and perform repairs.
Thanks to the successful application of this system, Braskem now benefits from a highly durable and watertight concrete tank tailored to the needs of a major thermoplastic resin producer.
Penetron Group
The Penetron Group manufactures advanced products for concrete waterproofing, repair, and flooring. Operating through a global network of regional offices and distributors, Penetron provides technical support for construction projects worldwide.
