Innovation

Building a Stronger China

Dow Corning products are frequently recommended by world-class designers and constructors for use in their break-through architectural projects. Whether you're traveling in China along the highest railway in the world, crossing a bay bridge with a lovely view, or simply visiting an architectural landmark, Dow Corning technology is likely to be part of your experience. But that’s not all. When a structure is well protected, fewer resources are spent in maintenance and repair, which ultimately benefits economies and the environment.

Protecting the Hangzhou Bay Bridge

Spanning the East China Sea, the Hangzhou Bay Bridge is constructed of concrete and steel. Dow Corning® brand water repellants – which penetrate concrete pores to prevent water access into the concrete – were selected to protect this cherished landmark from the salt water corrosion, which not only damages the building but deteriorates the appearance. Dow Corning water repellant products are at work from southern China ports to the highways in the capital of China, Beijing.

Enhancing Beijing’s Captivating Poly Building

Beijing’s new Poly Building has been significantly improved and protected with the use of two Dow Corning sealants – for surface enhancement and waterproofing. The surface enhancement sealant will reduce the frequency of façade cleaning, when compared to lower-quality sealant products, driving maintenance costs down. At the same time, the waterproofing sealant will protect the building’s façade in the harsh weather of Northern China.

Keeping the Power On – and the Rails Running

It’s not easy to protect power cables in harsh weather conditions. At an average altitude of 12,000 feet, China’s Qingzang railway (the highest long railway in the world!) is exposed to snowstorms, sandstorms and low temperatures. The leading electrical apparatus company in China turned to Dow Corning for help, knowing that our silicone rubber products function throughout very wide temperature ranges and have excellent long-term stability.

They collaborated on development of a new liquid silicone rubber technology that can be used in even the coldest climate areas of China. The product is now used throughout China to seal and protect electric transmission lines from moisture created by fog and snow. Safety of passengers and reliability of transportation are now improved thanks to Dow Corning’s technology.