Throughout the centuries, the need for waterproofing materials has been constantly felt. From Noahs Ark and animal skin to modern technology and a concrete mix that can heal itself, the options are endless.
There is a polymer based hydraulically setting ready to use tile adhesive available for waterproofing of walls and floors. This treatment is brush applied in two coats.
PVC Membrane
Water damage is a common issue for buildings. Whether it’s due to a leaky roof, mildew and mould accumulation or even structural damage, waterproofing membranes are essential to protect structures and ensure they meet all environmental safety recommendations and requirements.
PVC is a popular choice for waterproofing membranes because it can be used in various applications and is an environmentally friendly option. It is made from polyvinyl chloride, and can be formed into a single sheet of material, making it incredibly durable. It’s resistant to precipitation, UV radiation, and can withstand heavy surface and tensile loads. It also has a low vapor transmission rate, which helps to prevent condensation in the building insulation.
Another benefit of PVC is that it’s easy to install and doesn’t require specialized equipment. It can be welded together with hot air, so there are no gaps or chinks that could allow water to enter the structure. It’s also fire resistant and meets energy code standards.
For added protection, a PVC membrane can be enhanced with DuPont Elvaloy KEE (Ketone Ethylene Ester). This solid phase plasticizer provides a long service life and prevents embrittlement. It also allows the membrane to stay flexible at temperatures ranging from freezing to warm, and it can be easily welded for repairs. Additionally, it offers greater resistance to chemicals such as air conditioning coolants and jet fuel.
Polyurethane
Waterproofing is essential in building constructions, especially the ones that are exposed to rain. It prevents the passage of water from wet areas to dry ones, which can cause structural damage. It is also necessary to protect the surfaces from corrosion caused by the action of water. Waterproofing can be done in various ways, from installing membranes to using polyurethane.
One of the most innovative waterproofing materials is polyurethane, which is considered to be the best for concrete and masonry structures. It can fill in even the finest cracks, reducing the water absorbency of the surface. It is also resistant to oil, detergents and other chemicals. This makes it a great choice for waterproofing walls, balconies, terraces and other outdoor areas of the building.
Another popular option for waterproofing is bituminous membranes. These are applied by spraying or brushing, and they are extremely durable. This material is made from crude oil, so it is not the most eco-friendly. However, it is highly effective and affordable.
Another option for waterproofing is a special slurry coating that is applied to the substrate. This can be used on concrete, brick masonry and cement bound surfaces. It is easy to apply and has good abrasion resistance. This is available in different brands, including Mc-special DM, Dichtament DM and Putz-Dichtament from MC Bauchemie.
Silicone Sealants
Silicone sealants are one of the most common building adhesives used in a wide range of applications. Their durability and ease of use make them a popular choice for everything from small repairs at home to big fixtures in industries. These glues are resistant to water, heat and extreme weather conditions which makes them a great choice for waterproofing applications.
These types of adhesives have a liquid, gel-like consistency when first applied to surfaces and cure to a rubber-like texture over a period of time. They are commonly sold in a standalone squeeze tube for manual application by hand, or in rigid cartridge formats that can be inserted into a convenient applicator device such as a caulk gun. Many silicone caulk products also feature a built-in dispensing nozzle for creating neat, beaded applications.
One of the most unique benefits of silicone sealants is their ability to withstand a very large temperature range, from -40 degrees Celsius all the way up to 220 degrees Celsius. This allows them to be used for a variety of applications, such as sealing around heating and cooling systems in buildings.
Additionally, silicone rubber is highly durable and resists moisture and corrosion. This has led to it being a favorite for the manufacture of goods such as appliances, automobiles and electronic devices. Some electronics are even encased in silicone, a process known as “potting,” to increase their durability and resistance to shock, radiation, vibration and extreme temperatures.
Polymer Coatings
The most durable waterproof materials for buildings that society has today are polymer coatings. These are applied like paint and can be used for a wide variety of surfaces and purposes, from metals to plastics. They are used to protect against corrosion, temperature extremes, chemicals, and other environmental conditions. This includes protecting metals against galvanic action, and even giving protection to concrete against chlorides, sulphates, and carbonation.
They can also help protect the environment by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This is because the coating can reduce the need for air conditioning, which consumes a lot of electricity and adds to greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The researchers at Columbia University have developed a polymer coating that can be applied like paint to surfaces and help them shed heat. This will decrease the amount of cooling energy needed and stop the feedback loop in which air conditioning causes the world to heat up more.
Another benefit of the polymer coating is its ability to resist corrosion. This is because it has a low permeability to water, oxygen, and ions, and does not rust. The coating can also be modified to change its properties. It can be made to be self-cleaning, antibacterial, or have an acoustic dampening function.
The coating can also be used on complex surfaces that are difficult to coat, such as the tight corners and edges of mechanical fasteners or the curved surface of an engine block. This is because the coating can be applied in multiple layers. Furthermore, the chemistry of the coating can be adjusted to ensure that it is chemically stable with its substrate. This is especially important for steel, which is widely used in bridges, pipes, and cars, but will rust over time.