Polymer Based Waterproofing of Concrete Structures

Why Is Waterproofing of Concrete Structures Necessary?

Why do we need to waterproof concrete structures? What is the main reason behind this process? Generally, waterproofing is carried out for two critical reasons. The first is to prevent leakage or water loss in tanks and pools. Given the scarcity of water resources today, one of the most essential objectives of waterproofing is to minimize water loss and leakage across various infrastructures. This makes it necessary to explore different products and methods for concrete waterproofing.

The second reason is to protect concrete against chemical attacks. When concrete is exposed to water and soil, the minerals and salts present in these elements can deteriorate the structure. Hence, waterproofing solutions are used to shield the concrete from such damage.

Waterproofing is the process through which a surface or structure becomes resistant to water, maintaining its integrity and performance under specific conditions without significant alteration. Broadly, waterproofing methods fall into two main categories (see Table 1).

• The first method involves the use of chemical and mineral admixtures and waterstops that must be applied during construction and concrete placement.
• The second method differs entirely and is implemented after the structure has been built. It involves post-construction waterproofing products, such as polymer-based coatings, crystalline penetrants, fast-setting waterproofers (plugging agents), and epoxy coatings, which form a protective surface barrier that prevents water ingress.

Table 1 – Classification of Waterproofing Products: During vs. After Construction

Polymer-Based Waterproofing

Polymer-based waterproofing coatings are generally two-component systems. The powder part is cement-based, while the liquid part is based on acrylic resin. Upon mixing, these two components form a coating that complies with EN 14891 standards.

Acrylic-based coatings offer excellent weather resistance, hydrolysis resistance, and color retention, making them suitable for outdoor applications. Thanks to their high elasticity, they can bridge cracks and maintain waterproofing performance even when minor cracks develop in the surface. In other words, the integrity of the waterproofing system is not compromised by cracking.

Technical Notes

• Each layer of the coating should not exceed 1000 microns, as excessive thickness may lead to sagging or efflorescence.
• Key performance parameters include adhesion to substrate, abrasion resistance, bond strength, and waterproofing efficiency.
• The most critical function of this product is to render the surface impermeable.

At Abadgaran Construction Chemicals, high-capacity production of two-component polymer-based waterproofing systems is underway. These systems are applicable without primer and can even be used on concrete that is just 3 days old.

Applications of Two-Component Polymer Waterproofing Systems

• Suitable for waterproofing stone, brick, and concrete tanks
• Ideal for balconies and basements
• Effective in sealing and moisture-proofing underground areas
• Used for water and wastewater treatment plants
• Recommended for swimming pools and fish farming tanks
• Useful for moisture control in bathrooms and restrooms
• Applicable on negative pressure surfaces when used in conjunction with crystalline waterproofers
• Suitable for water features and rooftop gardens
• For cement water pipelines requiring internal waterproofing
• Can stabilize and waterproof irregular surfaces under positive pressure
• Effective for grain silos and water storage structures

Abadgaran’s Specialized Waterproofing Solutions

To address positive-pressure waterproofing needs, Abadgaran Construction Chemicals has developed ABAFLEX-FCW and ABAFLEX-ECO, two advanced waterproofing systems with exceptionally low water permeability compared to many competitors.

Thanks to their high adhesion strength, these polymer coatings can resist chloride ion penetration, sulfates, and various aggressive chemicals including acids, alkalis, and industrial effluents. However, if the concrete structure is exposed to harsh chemical environments, then industrial-grade epoxy coatings (in accordance with ASTM C881) must be selected based on environmental conditions and project requirements