Electro Osmotic System
Electro osmotic damp proofing dates back to the 18th century where it was discovered that applied voltage affected capillary action. Later in the 19th century, it was further discovered that water was moved from a positive anode to a negative cathode when an electrical potential was applied. The principal was discovered by the physicist Reuss and it is this principle that forms the basis of the Timberwise Electro Osmotic System, one of the methods of stopping rising damp.
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The Theory Behind Electro Osmosis
The theory is simple: Moisture rises from the earth by capillary action (other-wise known as rising damp). It was believed that an electrical potential developed between the wall and the earth. Interference with this naturally generated electricity would depress the rise of moisture. By using the natural principal of water movement using electrical osmosis we provide damp treatment in a clean and environmentally friendly way.
The system operates well in all types of masonry (brick, stone composite walls and concrete) and despite being in permanent operation the energy consumption remains negligibly low.
Description of the Electro Osmosis Damp Proof System
1. Control unit: At the heart of the Timberwise electro osmotic damp proofing system is a robust power unit that automatically adapts to the degree of dampness in the wall. The constant electrical voltage guarantees the optimal drying process.
2. Anodes (the main conductor): With the extensive use of commercially pure titanium coated with a platinum group element, this ensures outstanding reliability and resistance to physical and chemical attack.
3. Earth Rods: For installation in the ground.
How Does The Electro Osmotic Damp Proof System Work ?
After the titanium damp course has been fitted, a small voltage is applied to the titanium via the power unit. Immediately, all the titanium wire in contact with the wall and anode sections will conduct electricity.
The nett result is equivalent to having one continuously conducting anode so enabling a very rapid build-up in wall potential.
After a period of time, an insoluble film of titanium dioxide will build up at the titanium/wall interface. Once this film has become established there is very little further electrical conduction from the titanium wire.
The anodes will naturally continue to conduct so maintaining the wall potential. To some degree, it is as if the Timberwise electro-osmotic system is self-healing so if the titanium becomes scratched or damaged it will quickly form another protective skin making this a reliable form of damp proofing.
