• Placing the joint in an inappropriate location.

• Ignoring reinforcement of the joint.

• Using unsuitable materials.

• Failing to adhere to the specified dimensions.

• Not inspecting after execution.

Yes, they are designed to accommodate horizontal expansion and contraction, and some types can also handle vertical movement.

Yes, there are Heavy Duty types specifically designed for parking garages and industrial driveways.

Yes, iChem provides a wide range of aluminum expansion joints in various sizes and designs to suit different project requirements and structural conditions.
It’s not only about the width of the joint — but also the height, aluminum thickness, cover type, and the joint’s ability to handle horizontal and vertical movement.

🔹 Details include:

• Multiple width options:
  Sizes start from small joints of 1 cm for interior buildings, up to 10 cm or more for large structural joints in malls, parking garages, and bridges.

• Different profiles depending on floor type:

  • Expansion joints for concrete floors.

  • Tileable profiles that can be installed with ceramic, porcelain, or marble finishes.

  • Flush-type joints that sit level with the floor for a seamless aesthetic.

  • Sliding or movable cover systems designed to absorb large movements.

• Different load capacities:

  • Standard Duty: For residential areas, corridors, and light traffic.

  • Heavy Duty: Designed for parking areas, vehicles, and trucks.

• Indoor and outdoor installation options:
  Weather-resistant systems suitable for roofs, facades, entrances, and exposed areas.

🔹 Custom Manufacturing (Custom Made):
If the project requires a specific size, color, or movement capacity, iChem can provide tailor-made solutions according to approved engineering drawings.

✅ In summary:
iChem doesn’t provide a one-size-fits-all solution — it offers a complete system of sizes, shapes, and designs to meet the exact needs of every project.

iChem offers different types of expansion joints depending on the project requirements, with the most common being aluminum and rubber expansion joints.

Aluminum Expansion Joints:
These joints are known for their high strength and durability. They can withstand heavy loads and continuous traffic, which makes them ideal for malls, parking garages, airports, and commercial areas. They also provide an aesthetic finish, long service life, and require minimal maintenance.

Rubber Expansion Joints:
These are more flexible and are designed to absorb movement, thermal expansion and contraction, and vibrations. They also provide excellent waterproofing. Rubber joints are suitable for roofs, facades, and concrete joints that are not exposed to heavy mechanical loads.

In summary:
iChem provides both types to suit different project needs — aluminum joints for strength and heavy-duty performance, and rubber joints for flexibility and better waterproofing.

A Plasticizer is a normal concrete admixture that reduces mixing water by about 5–10% to improve workability.
A Superplasticizer, on the other hand, is a high-range water reducer that can decrease water content by up to 30%, providing highly flowable concrete with superior strength without affecting final performance.
iChem supplies both types with high quality that meets international standards and helps select the right product based on the project’s requirements to ensure the best concrete performance.

PVC Waterstop

• Material: Plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC).

• Properties:

  • Flexible and stretchable.

  • Can be easily bent around corners or embedded in complex joints.

  • Can accommodate slight concrete movements.

• Uses:

  • Suitable for construction or expansion joints in concrete.

  • Used in water tanks, channels, foundations, and dams.

uPVC Waterstop

• Material: Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC).

• Properties:

  • Rigid and more resistant to deformation compared to flexible PVC.

  • Less flexible but more resistant to chemical and mechanical pressure.

• Uses:

  • Suitable for joints exposed to high water pressure or harsh environments.

  • Used in heavy engineering projects such as dams, bridges, and large water tanks.

✅ Summary

No, a waterstop cannot be effectively installed after the concrete has been poured, because it is designed to be integrated within the concrete during pouring to prevent water leakage through construction or expansion joints.

Clarification:

Correct installation using iChem products:

• The waterstop, such as IsoFlex PVC Waterstop or Hydrophilic Waterstop from iChem, should be installed in the joint before pouring the next concrete layer.

• It must be securely fixed using clamps or wires to ensure it stays in place during pouring.

Main function:

• The waterstop acts as an integrated barrier that prevents water from passing through concrete joints.

• If installation is attempted after pouring, there will be insufficient bonding with the concrete, leading to waterproofing failure.

Alternative solutions after pouring (if the waterstop was not installed):

• iChem Injection Grouts or Surface Waterproofing Compounds can be used to address leaks, but they do not provide the same full effectiveness as an embedded waterstop.

Yes, iChem products in certain categories of waterproofing materials and concrete additives are suitable for drinking water tanks, but only if the product is certified for use with potable water. Usually, the company issues certificates of compliance with health and safety standards (such as NSF/ANSI 61 or the Egyptian standards for drinking water) for products that can be used inside water tanks.

For clarification:

• Waterproofing & Waterstops: Some types are safe for drinking water, while others are intended for industrial use only.

• Concrete additives: Some additives are designed solely to improve concrete properties, so it is important to ensure that they do not contain substances harmful to water.

• iChem provides flexible joint filling materials such as silicone and polyurethane, which are essential for the effective implementation of contraction joints.

• iChem offers comprehensive concrete joint solutions, including design, supply, and technical support, especially for industrial projects, roads, and flooring.

• iChem products help preserve the service life of concrete and reduce cracks caused by shrinkage.

The Egyptian Code for Expansion Joints requires the installation of expansion joints in buildings, roads, and bridges to protect structures from cracks caused by thermal expansion and contraction or excessive loads. The main requirements include:

• Spacing between expansion joints: Expansion joints must be installed every 20–30 meters in concrete structures to ensure flexibility.

• Types of expansion joints: Horizontal, vertical, and structural joints depending on the project type (buildings – bridges – tunnels – roads).

• Expansion joint filler materials: Must be flexible, resistant to moisture and weather conditions, and provide continuous waterproofing.

• Execution of expansion joints: Strict compliance with engineering designs and precise implementation to avoid future problems.

• Technical supervision: Relying on specialized companies such as iChem Egypt to provide high-quality solutions fully compliant with the Egyptian Code and international standards.

To learn more:

Types of Expansion Joints in Egypt – iChem Solutions

In Egypt, construction projects rely on high-quality expansion joints to prevent cracks and structural damage. The main types include:

1. Rubber Expansion Joints – Flexible, vibration-resistant, ideal for bridges, pipelines, and drainage.

2. Metallic Expansion Joints – Stainless steel or carbon steel, used in industrial pipelines and HVAC systems.

3. Concrete and Filler Joints – Include polyurethane, silicone, or bitumen fillers for roads, slabs, and floors.

4. Finger/Modular Joints – Durable interlocking systems for bridges, airports, and heavy-traffic areas.

iChem Egypt provides advanced expansion joint solutions, technical support, and local expertise to ensure durable, safe, and long-lasting structures.

In 2026, rubber expansion joint prices in Egypt range from EGP 400 to over 3,500 per meter depending on quality, size, and project type. Investing in high-quality joints from reputable suppliers like iChem Egypt ensures safety, durability, and long-term performance, protecting floors, pipelines, and structures from damage caused by thermal expansion and movement.

You Can reed more

The technical support includes all Ichem construction chemicals solutions, such as:

• Marble and ceramic adhesives

• Concrete repair materials

• Welding knife and Waterstop from Ichem

• Waterstop fixing clips from Ichem

• Isoflex PVC

• ChemTile

• ChemTile IP

• ChemTile J

• ChemTile C

• Epobond SF

• Epomortar SF

• MasterSim R20

• SimGrout 920

• ChemZinc 1

• ChemZinc 2

• AcriShield 60

Yes, many companies offer technical consultations, but Ichem stands out with a specialized team that helps clients choose the right materials. They also provide practical training for site engineers and contractors. This technical support improves project efficiency and reduces application errors.

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The factors include the type of chemicals required (admixtures, waterproofing materials, adhesives), technical specifications, project size, and transportation costs. Ichem understands the importance of budget control, so it provides flexible solutions that suit various project needs while ensuring quality.

The prices of construction chemicals vary depending on the product type and the scale of the project. For example:

• Concrete admixtures such as superplasticizers are relatively more expensive.

• Waterproofing and thermal insulation materials differ in price according to specifications.

• Large-scale projects often receive special pricing or bulk agreements.

Prices are also influenced by market factors such as raw material costs and shipping. That’s why it is crucial to work with a supplier who ensures consistent quality despite price fluctuations.

This is where Ichem comes in — offering competitive prices and a wide range of solutions suitable for both small and large projects, with full compliance to international standards and free technical support for contractors and consultants.

Ichem has participated in numerous major projects across Egypt, providing innovative and sustainable concrete solutions using ready-mix concrete admixtures, expansion joints, and high-quality construction chemicals. These projects include:

• Misr University for Science and Technology

• Sour Magra El-Oyoun

• Kidney Dialysis Center

• Tanta Mall

• New Cairo Police Building

• Badr Hospital

• Central Museum of Modern Egyptian Art

• Cairo Business Plaza

• Mostakbal City

Using ready-mix concrete admixtures may slightly increase the cost per cubic meter, but this investment provides significant benefits:

• Improves the durability and long-term strength of concrete.

• Reduces waste caused by cracks or weak concrete.

• Enhances performance under different climatic conditions, such as high temperatures or humid areas.

Ichem’s Role:
Ichem provides high-quality ready-mix concrete admixtures designed to maximize benefits while minimizing additional costs. The company also offers technical consultation and support in selecting the right type and dosage for each project, ensuring optimized performance without significantly increasing costs.

Can chemical admixtures be added to concrete on-site?

Yes, chemical admixtures can be added on-site, but it is generally recommended to add them during concrete batching at the plant to ensure uniform distribution. On-site addition is possible if adjustments are needed, but it requires careful measurement and proper mixing to maintain concrete quality.

If you are looking to increase concrete durability and reduce water permeability in your projects, choosing the right admixture is a crucial step. Waterproofing admixtures help to:

• Seal concrete pores and prevent water and moisture penetration.

• Protect concrete from chemical attack and early deterioration.

• Enhance service life and structural performance in buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities.

Ichem’s Role:
Ichem provides a complete range of ready-mix concrete admixtures specifically designed to suit Egypt’s climatic conditions, while adhering to the highest international quality standards. The company also offers technical consultation and mix design support to ensure the correct type and dosage are selected for each project.

Projects and Services:
Major projects across Egypt have relied on Ichem products, including residential buildings, bridges, roads, and industrial facilities. With Ichem solutions, engineers can achieve more durable concrete with longer service life and excellent performance against water penetration and challenging environmental conditions.

Choosing the right type of admixture depends on the nature of the project, climate conditions, and design requirements. For example:

• Roads and bridges projects: Use admixtures that reduce shrinkage and increase strength.

• Buildings in coastal areas: Use waterproofing and chloride-resistant admixtures.

• Hot climates in Egypt: Use retarders to maintain workability and improve durability.

Ichem’s Role:
Ichem provides a complete range of ready-mix concrete admixtures specifically designed to suit different climatic conditions in Egypt. In addition to high-quality products, Ichem offers technical support and mix design consultation to ensure the correct admixture is chosen according to project requirements.

Services and Projects:
Ichem has contributed to many major projects in Egypt, including residential buildings, bridges, roads, and industrial facilities, offering sustainable and efficient concrete solutions that ensure longer concrete service life and optimal performance.

n hot climates such as Egypt, the rapid loss of water from concrete and the acceleration of the setting time can lead to reduced strength and durability. To overcome these challenges, the following admixtures are commonly used:

• Retarders: Extend the setting time and prevent early cracking.

• Superplasticizers (Water Reducers): Reduce water content while maintaining high strength.

• Waterproofing Admixtures: Protect concrete from moisture absorption and deterioration.

This is where Ichem plays a vital role, offering a complete range of admixtures specifically designed to suit Egypt’s hot climate conditions, ensuring longer concrete service life and optimal performance in construction projects.

You can purchase ready-mix concrete admixtures through specialized construction chemical companies in Egypt. One of the leading companies is Ichem

which provides comprehensive solutions for concrete admixtures suitable for various projects in both Cairo and Alexandria.

Ichem products are known for their high quality, compliance with international standards, and technical support services that help you choose the right type and dosage according to your project requirements.

How to contact Ichem?

Email: mahmoud.ragab@ichemeg.com

Phone: 01022000050

Or via the Contact Us page on the company’s website.

Ichem’s concrete additives can be used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Infrastructure projects (bridges, tunnels, roads)

• Residential and commercial buildings

• Tanks and water treatment plants

• Industrial and coastal structures

Ichem offers advanced concrete additives that enhance concrete performance and extend its lifespan, including:

• Enhancers for early and late strength to ensure high durability.

• Additives that reduce concrete permeability to protect against water and moisture.

• Workability improvers that reduce water consumption.

• Additives resistant to corrosion and chemicals to safeguard concrete in harsh environments.

Available products include:

• AddChem MF

• AddChem Fiber FG

• AddChem BP Macro Fiber

• AddChem F388

• AddChem Slurry S50

Concrete strengthening additives are specialized chemical materials added to concrete mixes to enhance their performance and efficiency under various operating conditions. Their importance lies in improving concrete’s resistance to environmental and structural factors, increasing durability, and enhancing workability during casting and execution.

Ichem offers a wide range of advanced concrete additive solutions designed in accordance with the latest international standards, contributing to:

• Increasing concrete’s resistance to compression and bending.

• Reducing permeability and enhancing resistance to weathering factors.

• Extending the service life of structures.

• Achieving higher quality with faster and more efficient application.

With extensive expertise in the field of construction chemicals, Ichem provides innovative additives that support both large-scale and small-scale projects, making it a trusted partner in the development of modern infrastructure.

Spiked shoes are essential for ventilating the material during application on the floor. The spikes allow trapped air bubbles beneath the surface to escape, ensuring a smooth, defect-free, and uniform layer while preventing bubbles that could weaken the final coating. Easydeal provides high-quality spiked shoes to achieve the best results.

To ensure professional and effective building waterproofing, it is essential to use the right tools. The most important tools include:

• Paint rollers and brushes for even application of waterproofing materials.

• Cutting knives for precise trimming of surfaces and materials.

• Silicone guns for filling joints and preventing water leakage.

• Measuring tape to ensure accuracy during application.

• Hand mixers for liquid materials to achieve a uniform mix.

• Spraying equipment when dealing with large quantities or wide areas.

Ichem provides a wide range of these high-quality tools, along with advanced waterproofing materials, to ensure the best performance for construction and waterproofing projects in Egypt.

Contact Ichem now to get technical support and expert consultation on selecting the right tools and materials for your project, ensuring efficient and durable waterproofing work.

Does the i720 support horizontal and vertical movements?
Yes, the i720 expansion joint is designed to handle horizontal and vertical movements very well. This makes it a good choice to deal with expansions and contractions caused by temperature changes or earthquakes. The joint helps protect structures and prevent cracks. Its performance depends on good installation and site conditions to ensure flexible and long-lasting response to building movement.

What types of finishes does this joint work with?
The i720 joint from iChem works well with many architectural finishes, including curtain walls, cladding systems, and gypsum board panels. This variety makes it suitable for buildings that need to blend the joints smoothly into the design without affecting the final look of the space.

Can it be integrated with hidden lighting systems?
The i720 joint is usually not used with hidden lighting systems because it does not support this kind of use. However, it can be installed with some types of lights like spotlights. The design must be coordinated before installation to avoid any interference and to make sure the joint fits well with the overall architectural finish.

iChem offers complete solutions for the supply and installation of structural joints, with three flexible options to suit the nature of the project and the client's budget:

• Supply-only: With supply-only service, the client choose the type of expansion joints they require, and we prepare the order at the factory. Then, the client picks up the joints directly from the factory according to their preference. This service does not include delivery or installation, and the client is responsible for taking the joints.

Supply and Installation: An iChem engineer visits the site to inspect and carefully measure the required quantities. We then supply the joints and install them completely using a specialized technical team. With this service, the client does not need to take any steps other than coordinating with us and providing some simple supplies on-site.

• Supply + Installation: In the supply + installation service, the customer purchases the structural joints from iChem and they are delivered as requested. We provide him with a clear lump sum installation price based on the required lengths. The client can request the installation service at a time that suits him according to the site’s readiness.

Yes, at iChem, we offer the ability to design and manufacture fully customized expansion joints to suit the nature of each project. When designing joints, we take into account the following:

1. The type of movement required (horizontal, vertical, or combined).

2. The type of loads expected on the joint.

3. The spacing between joints (contraction or expansion joints).

4. The nature of the surfaces, whether floors, walls or ceilings. 

5. Special sizing requirements depending on the implementation site.

6. The type of materials most appropriate for each case.

7. The engineering details specific to the installation or site.

Our engineering team collaborates with consultants and contractors to ensure effective, practical solutions that comply with technical specifications.

Yes, expansion joints can be installed in both existing buildings and new constructions. But the installation method depends on the condition of the building:

· In new constructions: Expansion joints are included in the design from the beginning. They are installed during construction, following the architectural and structural drawings.

· In existing buildings: Expansion joints can be added after the building is completed and finished, especially if there are problems like cracks or movement between parts of the structure. A technical study is needed to choose the right locations and make sure the installation doesn’t harm the structure or finishes.

Since this kind of work needs high technical skill and accuracy, iChem is one of the first companies to develop solutions that fit different site conditions. The company also provides full technical support to ensure proper installation and safe results.

Floor expansion joints

In floor expansion joints, gaps are left between floors to allow them to expand and contract as a result of temperature changes and to prevent cracks.

Features of floor expansion joints

1. iChem floor expansion joints provide flexibility to the floor because they allow it to expand and contract in a natural movement without damage.

2. iChem floor joints give a flat and homogeneous surface to the floor.

3. Floor expansion joints are filled with flexible materials such as rubber and silicone.

4. The main movement in the floors is horizontal.

5. iChem floor expansion joints are installed in large spaces such as parking lots and industrial buildings.

Wall expansion joints

In wall expansion joints, gaps are left between the walls to allow the walls to move naturally as a result of temperature changes and to prevent cracks.

Features of wall expansion joints

1. iChem wall expansion joints allow walls to move flexibly without cracking.

2. Reduce the impact of large cracks and fissures on the building structure.

3. iChem wall joints improve the performance of walls and maintain their shape, especially in large buildings.

4. Wall expansion joints are filled with flexible materials such as sealant to prevent water or air leakage.

5. Movement in walls is horizontal and vertical.

6. Wall expansion joints are used in tall buildings and places exposed to large temperature changes such as exterior facades.

1.     Epoxy Primer: Used to prepare the base layer of concrete, cement mortar and epoxy, it can be used in a variety of flooring system bases such as resin base, full polyurethane systems and polyurethane screed. It has high penetration and adhesion ability and is also used to fill cracks and joints. Epoxy primer manufactured by ichem is economical and easy to apply with short waiting times making it an ideal choice for multiple applications.

2.     Epoxy putty: Epoxy putty from ichem is also considered a base layer material that fill cracks and gaps and enhance the durability of surfaces and increase their resistance to corrosion and scratches to ensure their quality and increase their lifespan. Epoxy putty is characterized by its smooth filling on surfaces, which makes it versatile and ensures the preparation of an excellent base layer for painting subsequent epoxy layers and achieving the desired results.

3.     Epoxy paint: It is a type of high-performance industrial paint used for finishing and protection in a variety of applications such as industrial and commercial fields. This paint is tough and strong, perfect for areas with harsh conditions and heavy use.

4.     Self-leveling epoxy: It is a type of epoxy flooring used to cover damaged concrete floors, making them smooth and nice-looking. It is very strong against rust and chemicals, which makes it last a long time. Also, it is easy to clean and keeps the floors looking neat and new. This kind of epoxy flooring is great for places where how it looks and how it works both matters.

1. Epoxy Primer: Used to prepare the base layer of concrete, cement mortar and epoxy, it can be used in a variety of flooring system bases such as resin base, full polyurethane systems and polyurethane screed. It has high penetration and adhesion ability and is also used to fill cracks and joints. Epoxy primer manufactured by ichem is economical and easy to apply with short waiting times making it an ideal choice for multiple applications.

2. Epoxy putty: Epoxy putty from ichem is also considered a base layer material that fill cracks and gaps and enhance the durability of surfaces and increase their resistance to corrosion and scratches to ensure their quality and increase their lifespan. Epoxy putty is characterized by its smooth filling on surfaces, which makes it versatile and ensures the preparation of an excellent base layer for painting subsequent epoxy layers and achieving the desired results.

3.   Epoxy paint: It is a type of high-performance industrial paint used for finishing and protection in a variety of applications such as industrial and commercial fields. This paint is tough and strong, perfect for areas with harsh conditions and heavy use.

4. Self-leveling epoxy: It is a type of epoxy flooring used to cover damaged concrete floors, making them smooth and nice-looking. It is very strong against rust and chemicals, which makes it last a long time. Also, it is easy to clean and keeps the floors looking neat and new. This kind of epoxy flooring is great for places where how it looks and how it works both matters.

Installing epoxy flooring from Ichem requires following precise steps to ensure high-quality results and excellent performance. Here are the basic steps for implementing epoxy flooring:

1.      Surface preparation: Remove dirt and dust and make sure the surface is free of any grease, then wash it well with water. The surface is then polished and cracks are filled to level the surface.

2.      Moisture Test: Moisture testing is performed using a device designed to measure the moisture level of the surface, which helps ensure good adhesion of the epoxy and reduces the chances of cracking.

3.      Applying the base coat: This layer is applied to fill in the fine cracks and increase the adhesion between the surface and the epoxy layer. This layer must be allowed to dry completely before applying.

4.      Preparing the epoxy mixture: When preparing the epoxy mixture, it is recommended to use a mechanical mixer to obtain a homogeneous and bubble-free mixture. The components are mixed for 3 to 5 minutes, then the mixture is carefully distributed to prevent it from drying out.

5.      Applying the Epoxy and Top Coat: Using a brush or roller, spread the epoxy evenly over the surface, making sure that there are no air bubbles. It is best to divide the work into small sections to avoid the mixture drying before completion. After ensuring that the epoxy mixture is completely dry, apply the top coat in the same manner and leave it to dry.

6.      Floor drying period and final inspection: The surface is left to dry for 24 to 48 hours. After drying, the smoothness of the surface is checked and any defects are repaired.

By following these steps carefully, you can achieve high quality, durable epoxy floors that last. It is always best to hire professionals or consult the E-Chem team for the best advice and guidance on applying their products.

High Adhesion Strength:

• Provides strong stability for marble and ceramics, ensuring that tiles do not move or separate over time, making it one of the strongest adhesives available.

Resistance to Environmental Conditions:

• Marble and ceramic adhesives from iChem have high resistance to moisture, temperature changes, and chemicals, ensuring long-term adhesion quality.

Ease of Use:

• Whether you are a professional or not, you can use these materials easily, saving time and effort.

Compatibility with Different Materials:

• These adhesives have flexibility, making them adaptable to various materials such as wood, concrete, and brick.

Enhancing Aesthetic Performance:

• Marble and ceramic adhesives from iChem help keep surfaces clean and beautiful, achieving an excellent final appearance for tiles.

Resistance to Pressure and Scratches:

• Daily use of floors, whether residential, commercial, or even industrial, involves cleaning or pressures from machines that can cause cracks or deformations, which can be prevented using marble and ceramic adhesives.

Speeding Up Completion:

• These materials contain compounds that reduce setting and adhesion time, making them suitable for projects that need quick completion.

Versatility of Uses:

• These materials are suitable for all projects, whether residential, commercial, or even industrial.

Reliability and High Quality:

Ichem products have a strong reputation in the market, giving users great confidence in the quality of performance and longevity. This ensures excellent and lasting results in construction projects

1.Workability: iChem concrete additives improve workability and make pouring easier and faster. Workers can do their jobs with less effort. This cuts down on time and costs for large construction projects.

2. Durability: It lowers the water needed for the concrete mix. This makes the concrete more durable. Using less water makes concrete denser. This helps it resist cracking and erosion as time passes.

3. Setting Time: Accelerates setting time in cold weather or when fast results are necessary. This feature is helpful for projects that need to finish quickly. Concrete can become strong fast, letting you get back to work sooner.

4. Corrosion Resistance: Increases the resistance of concrete to corrosion and harmful environmental factors. These concrete additives help the material resist corrosion from salts and chemicals.

5. Crack Reduction: Reduces shrinkage and cracks caused by rapid drying. Concrete additives keep the concrete structure strong and prevent cracks that could Reduce the building's stability

6. Strength: Improves the durability and strength of concrete. Using these admixtures makes concrete last longer and become stronger over time.

7. Flexibility: Air-incorporating admixtures help concrete resist hardening and softening. This makes concrete better at handling sudden temperature changes, which is perfect for harsh environments.

8. Water Resistance: They prevent water from getting through, which makes concrete more resistant to water and moisture. This protects structures from water damage and continuous exposure to moisture.

9. Consistency: iChem Superplasticizers create high-quality concrete with good workability. They improve the consistency, making the concrete smoother and easier to pour.

10. Structural Enhancement: The fibers used in concrete from iChem strengthen the internal cohesion and reduce cracking. The addition of fibers gives concrete more strength and rigidity, which reduces the occurrence of cracking and corrosion over time.

• Expansion joints: These are used to allow buildings to expand and contract due to temperature changes, which helps prevent cracks and damage to buildings. iChem specializes in providing high-quality expansion joints to ensure the structural integrity of buildings.

• Contraction joints: They are used to prevent cracks resulting from shrinkage of concrete or bricks, and are placed in specific locations to direct the cracks in their designated path. iChem offers reliable contraction joints designed to minimize the risk of cracks in construction.

• Seismic joints: These joints are installed in earthquake-resistant buildings to allow them to move naturally and reduce damage caused by this movement. iChem provides advanced seismic joints that help buildings withstand seismic activities

• Control joints: They are used to control movement in long, continuous concrete surfaces, such as sidewalks, walkways, and parking lots. iChem ensures high-quality control joints for optimal performance in various construction projects.

• Thermal joints: These joints are used in areas exposed to temperature variations to allow buildings to expand and contract naturally, which helps prevent damage caused by thermal expansion and contraction. iChem provides top-quality thermal joints for enhanced building performance.

.

• Wall cracks: If expansion joints are not used, the walls are exposed to pressure, causing cracks and fissures as a result of thermal expansion and contraction. iChem ensures walls remain crack-free with their premium expansion joints.

• Deterioration of structural elements: Structural elements such as columns and foundations may be subjected to excessive stress without expansion joints, leading to a deterioration in their strength. iChem's solutions, structural integrity is maintained and protected.

• Collapses of structures: Stresses and strains resulting from the absence of joints may lead to partial or complete collapses in some structures. The advanced joints provided by iChem help prevent such collapses.

• Impact on floors: Concrete surfaces or floors can face problems like swelling or cracking, which can detract from their appearance. iChem's top-quality joints ensure smooth and intact floors.

• Increased maintenance costs: Facilities that face problems due to not using expansion joints require frequent maintenance and repairs, which increases costs. iChem helps reduce maintenance costs with durable and effective joints.

• Reduce energy efficiency: Cracks and gaps that occur due to not using joints affect thermal insulation, leading to energy loss and increased heating and cooling costs. The specialized joints from iChem improve energy efficiency and insulation.

• Infrastructure problems: Damage to electrical and plumbing systems can occur when buildings expand or contract without expansion joints to allow for normal movement, leading to malfunctions and additional repair costs. iChem's solutions ensure the smooth operation of infrastructure systems.

• Deterioration of aesthetic appearance: Cracks and fissures lead to deterioration of the aesthetic appearance of buildings, affecting their market value. With iChem's help, buildings retain their aesthetic appeal and market value.

Expansion joints are considered essential elements in large construction projects, and we will mention here the most important reasons for using expansion joints: •

Reducing the effects of thermal changes: Expansion joints allow buildings and construction materials to expand and contract due to temperature changes without cracking or damaging the structure.

• Dealing with structural movement: Joints help absorb movement that can occur due to seismic movement, enhancing the stability of the building.

• Preventing cracks: Expansion joints allow buildings to move naturally due to environmental changes, preventing cracks and damage.

• Adapting to changing loads: Joints allow movement with changing loads such as heavy traffic on bridges or heavy weights in industrial buildings.

• Reducing the need for maintenance: Expansion joints reduce the effects of environmental changes, preserving the building and reducing the need for maintenance.

• Increase the life of the building: By reducing stresses and damage, expansion joints can increase the life of the building and ensure its long-term stability.

To install expansion joints, basic points must be considered to ensure their high efficiency and achieve the main purpose, which is to protect buildings from cracks resulting from thermal expansion and contraction. We summarize these points in the following steps:

1. Planning and study:

• Study the project drawings and designs to choose the appropriate types of joints, determine their locations, and pass tasks to the work team. • Prepare a timeline that matches the work stages and ensure commitment to the specified time.

2. Choosing expansion joints:

• Knowing the amount of pressure and stress that the structure will be exposed to and the type of environmental factors surrounding it to choose materials that can bear the loads on them.

• Choose expansion joints that are consistent with the shape of the designs and finishes on the project

3. Surface preparation:

• Clean the surface of dust and gravel and ensure that there are no chemicals or oils to ensure the joints are fixed. The surface must also be free of protrusions.

• Placemarks to determine the locations of the joints and review the engineering designs before installation to ensure the accuracy of the marks.

4. Section Installation:

• Cut the expansion joints to the lengths specified in the drawings and place them in their places, fixing them with adhesives or nails depending on the type of joints.

• Fill the joints with suitable fillers and ensure that there are no gaps to ensure flexibility of expansion and contraction.

5. Finishing:

• Level the surfaces using appropriate tools and leave the materials to dry according to the manufacturing recommendations.

6. Final cleaning:

• Remove any remaining filling materials, clean dust, and small parts, and dry the surfaces using an air dryer to prevent dust from accumulating due to moisture.

Waterproofing materials are essential in construction projects. Therefore,Ichem company manufactures high-quality waterproofing materials to ensure their performance efficiency. Here, we will mention the benefits of waterproofing.

1.    Preventing leaks and moisture protection: It forms an   effective barrier that prevents water and moisture from entering buildings, protecting them from damage, decay, and corrosion that may result from these leaks.

2.    Extending the lifespan of buildings: Waterproofing materials help extend the lifespan of buildings, because well-insulated buildings can last a long time and maintain their integrity without the need for frequent maintenance.

3.    Improve energy efficiency: Good insulation maintains internal temperatures to reduce the use of air conditioning or heating devices, which leads to reduced energy and electricity consumption.

4.    Easy to apply: Ichem company manufactures modern waterproofing materials that are easy to apply for a quick and uncomplicated insulation process, ensuring it doesn't take much time in the project's schedule.

5.    Diversity: Ichem provides multiple types of waterproofing to suit all projects and customer requirements, such as PVC and acrylic paints, making it a flexible and comprehensive solution.

Expansion joints are construction joints that allow buildings to move naturally due to environmental changes to protect them from damage. They have many benefits, including:

1-Preventing cracks: Allowing buildings to move in all directions due to thermal expansion and contraction to prevent cracks in buildings.
2-Reducing pressure and absorbing vibrations: Expansion joints absorb vibrations and pressures resulting from earthquake movement and dynamic loads on structures.
3-Increasing structural efficiency: Contributing to enhancing the efficiency of structural buildings by making them safe, stable and durable to withstand all different environmental factors.
4-Improving insulation: Joints insulate heat, and fire and water retention properties can be added to ensure safety and security in buildings.
5-Design flexibility: Various forms of expansion joints are available to suit all projects and different finishes.
6-Easy to install and maintain: Joints can be easily installed and fixed, which facilitates maintenance work in the event of damage.
7-Economic cost: Expansion joints are considered an economical solution in construction projects because they protect the building from damage and cracks, which reduces the need for frequent maintenance and increases the building’s expected life.