Innovative Culvert Rehabilitation: A Cost-Effective approach
Innovative Culvert Rehabilitation: A Cost-Effective, Long-Term Solution Using EonCoat and SprayWall

At Quantum Industrial Solutions (QIS), we specialize in innovative trenchless rehabilitation systems that extend the life of aging culverts and stormwater infrastructure with maximum durability and minimal environmental impact. Our latest method combines void stabilization with high-density polyurethane foam, EonCoat Corrosion Protection, and SprayWall Structural Lining, anchored mechanically for long-term performance. This approach delivers exceptional protection against corrosion, abrasion, and infiltration—all at a fraction of the replacement cost.
Technical Overview of the Rehabilitation System
- Subgrade Void Stabilization
The process begins with the injection of high-density polyurethane foam beneath the culvert invert. This foam expands to fill and stabilize voids without requiring excavation, creating a uniform and stable foundation. Its closed-cell structure eliminates water migration, crucial for aging culverts with bottom degradation. - Corrosion Protection with EonCoat
Once the substrate is stabilized, we apply EonCoat Corrosion Protection Coating (ECP) to the lower interior surface (invert and 1 meter up the walls). EonCoat is an inorganic, ceramic-forming coating that reacts chemically with steel, forming a dense passivated layer. Unlike traditional polymer coatings, EonCoat:
- Is zero-VOC, non-flammable, and moisture tolerant
- Bonds directly to the steel via chemical reaction (not just mechanical adhesion)
- Has no recoat window and does not allow underfilm corrosion
- Offers long-term rust resistance even in marine and immersion environments (ASTM B117: 4000 hours salt fog = Rating 10, no rust)
With 95%+ solids and a DFT of 500–900 microns, EonCoat provides a robust foundation for overcoating while protecting critical areas where corrosion is most aggressive.
- Abrasion-Resistant Liner: SprayWall
The structural liner consists of SprayWall®, a polyurethane-modified polyurea, applied at 7 mm DFT across the full circumference. SprayWall forms a high-strength, monolithic liner with excellent adhesion and extremely rapid return to service. Technical advantages include:
- Compressive Strength: Over 85 MPa (12,300 psi) per ASTM D695
- Abrasion Resistance: Loss < 2 mg per ASTM D4060
- Flexibility: Elongation up to 8–10% for minor substrate movement
- Return to Service: As little as 1 hour depending on conditions
Combined with proper surface preparation (SSPC-SP7) and controlled DFT, SprayWall restores hydraulic capacity and creates a highly abrasion-resistant interior surface.
- Mechanical Anchoring System
After the SprayWall cures, we drill and install Tapcon™ screws in a 500 mm x 500 mm grid along the bottom and 1 meter of both side walls. This mechanical anchoring locks the liner to the culvert structure, preventing delamination due to hydrostatic forces or vibration. Every screw is sealed with waterproofing mastic to prevent bi-directional infiltration.
Why This System Is Cost-Effective and Long-Lasting
- No Excavation = Lower Cost
Traditional culvert replacement can cost 3–5× more and cause environmental and traffic disruption. Our trenchless rehab avoids excavation, minimizing labor, equipment, and site restoration costs. - Extended Service Life
The combined system exceeds 50 years of projected life under aggressive conditions. EonCoat chemically halts corrosion at the root, while SprayWall protects against mechanical wear. This dual-layer approach far outlasts polymer-only liners or sprayed mortars. - Minimal Downtime
The fast curing nature of both EonCoat and SprayWall allows for rapid project completion, often within a few days. Inlet/outlet flow can resume quickly, a key benefit for municipalities. - Sustainability and Safety
Both coatings are water-based, non-toxic, and zero-VOC, eliminating the need for confined space ventilation or hot work permits. This contributes to greener project profiles and lower compliance costs.
Conclusion
This engineered system—void stabilization + EonCoat + SprayWall + mechanical anchoring—offers superior structural reinforcement, corrosion control, and waterproofing in a single rehabilitation method. With reduced installation time and a longer design life, it's one of the most cost-effective and technically robust solutions available for municipal and industrial culvert renewal today.
For more technical details or to request a quote, contact the QIS team at qisbc.ca.





