When it comes to project demands, selecting the correct geotechnical polyurethane formula makes the difference between success and failure. At NCFI Geotechnical, we offer a variety of formulas with different characteristics so that contractors can meet the needs of each unique project. Even when polyurethane formulas appear similar on paper, the way they perform in the field can be noticeably different. How quickly a material reacts, how far it spreads, its ability to generate lift, and how it interacts with water can all influence where and when it should be used. These differences are especially important for contractors performing residential concrete leveling, where controlled lifting can be needed to restore settled driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks, garage floors, and other concrete surfaces. Understanding these differences allows contractors to match the material to the demands of the application. Let’s dissect three of NCFI’s formulas that share similar qualities but offer key differences that can make each better suited for specific applications: NCFI-2.8F, NCFI-3RH, and NCFI-3FH.
The tried-and-true, best-selling NCFI-2.8F is a popular choice for contractors
lifting concrete. Its fast reaction time allows the material to set quickly, limiting how far it travels from the injection point and giving contractors greater control over the lift. This makes NCFI-2.8F well suited for applications where precise, targeted lifting is the priority. For residential concrete leveling contractors, this can include lifting settled sidewalks, driveways, patios, pool decks, and other slabs where controlled movement is important.
Unlike some other geotechnical polyurethane formulas, NCFI-2.8F is not hydrophobic. When groundwater or significant standing water is present, another formula may be better suited for the conditions.
NCFI-3RH is unique in its ability to lift in wet conditions. This formula offers a slightly higher density and hydrophobic properties, allowing it to perform in saturated soils where groundwater or moisture may be present. This gives concrete leveling contractors another option when a settled residential slab is accompanied by wet subsurface conditions.
Compared to NCFI-2.8F, NCFI-3RH has a slower reaction speed. That additional reaction time allows the polyurethane to travel farther from the injection point before setting, providing greater spread beneath the concrete. This can be advantageous when localized voids beneath a slab need to be filled while restoring support and lift. begins reacting in as little as two seconds but expands more gradually beneath the slab, with a longer 27-second rise time that provides a slower, more controlled lifting response.
NCFI-3RH is not intended for large-volume void filling. Applications involving substantial voids require polyurethane systems specifically designed with a low exotherm for safe, controlled placement.
What if contractors need characteristics of both formulas? NCFI-3FH was developed to bridge the gap, combining key characteristics of NCFI-2.8F and NCFI-3RH into one formula. This polyurethane combines the speed of the NCFI-2.8F and the hydrophobic nature of the NCFI-3RH. The ability to perform in wet conditions and react quickly for fast lifting gives this polyurethane versatility across a range of project conditions. For residential slab lifting, this combination can be useful when contractors need controlled lift but encounter moisture beneath the concrete.
NCFI-3FH begins reacting in as little as two seconds and has a 19-second rise time, providing a faster lifting response than NCFI-3RH while still generating lifting force as the polyurethane expands.
The faster reaction time also means NCFI-3FH does not offer the same degree of spread as NCFI-3RH. Instead, it provides a balance between controlled, targeted lifting and the ability to perform when moisture or groundwater is present. For contractors, this makes NCFI-3FH a useful middle ground when project conditions call for characteristics found in both formulas.
Matching the Formula to the Application
The right polyurethane depends on what the project demands. Whether lifting a residential driveway or sidewalk or addressing settlement on a larger commercial project, contractors must consider both the desired lift and the conditions beneath the concrete. NCFI-2.8F is well suited for concrete lifting projects where fast reaction and precise control are priorities, particularly in dry conditions. When saturated soils or groundwater are present, NCFI-3RH offers hydrophobic properties along with greater spread, which can help fill localized voids and restore support beneath concrete.
For projects that require wet-condition performance but benefit from a faster reaction and lift, NCFI-3FH offers characteristics of both formulas. Ultimately, factors such as moisture, desired spread, reaction time, and lifting requirements can help contractors determine which formula is best suited for the application.
The Right Formula for the Project
No two projects present exactly the same conditions, and the polyurethane selected should reflect the demands of the job. NCFI-2.8F, NCFI-3RH, and NCFI-3FH each offer unique characteristics that can provide an advantage depending on factors such as moisture, reaction speed, spread, and lifting requirements.
The development of NCFI-3FH is also an example of how product innovation can be driven by needs in the field. When contractors needed a formula that combined the fast reaction of NCFI-2.8F with the hydrophobic properties of NCFI-3RH, NCFI developed a solution designed to bridge that gap.
With a range of geotechnical polyurethane formulas available, contractors can select the material that best matches the conditions and goals of each project. Contact NCFI Geotechnical to discuss your next project and determine which polyurethane formula is best suited for the application.