Can resin or urethane grouts be injected into running water?

Water-activated, hydrophobic, semi-rigid urethanes, such as MME Universal Resin, are manufactured for grouting into flowing water conditions and are regularly used for water cut-off work in underground mines, tunnels and hydroelectric facilities.

Water-activated, hydrophilic, flexible urethanes, such as MME Flexible Resin, are manufactured for grouting into manholes and other shallow structures and are not the best choice for higher-pressure, water cut-off grouting in mines and tunnels; this type of resin may be sufficient for temporary use but should not be considered when long-term water cut-off is required.

Two-component urethanes (A/B Types), such as Multiurethanes Rigid Grout, are intended for relatively dry conditions and do not react or cure properly when injected into flowing water.

Two-component epoxies (A/B Types) are intended for dry conditions and do not react properly when injected into flowing water.

Also consider site conditions and grouting methodology:

• if the rate of water inflow is 100 GPM and the rate of resin grouting is 2 GPM, resin grouting will not be successful
• if drill holes are too shallow, there will be insufficient residence time for the resin grout to activate and cure

In summary, with appropriate preparations based on specific site conditions, with appropriate grouting equipment having sufficient delivery and pressure capacity, and with an appropriate water-activated, hydrophobic, semi-rigid urethane grout, water cut-off work can be successfully undertaken in underground mining and tunneling applications.

If you require technical assistance or additional information for the selection of appropriate grouting materials for chemical or cement grouting projects, contact Multiurethanes at 1-800-663-6633, email: [email protected].