PVC
Top-Notch PVC Waterproofing Membranes
PVC waterproofing membranes are a modern roofing material that provides long-term protection for underground structures, tunnels, and swimming pools. Choose our team of experts in waterproofing tunnels, to learn more about the benefits of PVC waterproofing membranes.
PVC History
The history of PVC membranes is marked by a significant milestone in 1969 when the flexible PVC membrane was first applied in a Subway Station in Vienna, Austria. This pioneering success sparked the interest of tunnel specialists not only within Austria but also internationally. Throughout the 1970s, the flexible membrane proved its effectiveness in sealing underground constructions, leading to numerous successful projects.
In 1984, the United States witnessed the introduction of PVC membranes on the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) B-10a project, specifically in the Red Line section. This groundbreaking project highlighted the feasibility of designing and constructing dry tunnels at a cost that was economically justifiable for the owner, making a significant impact on the North American underground construction market.
The PVC membrane tunnel waterproofing system has been successfully used in various tunnel projects across the United States, including twelve other WMATA Projects. The owners who have opted for this value-engineered system have received dry tunnels, which will save them significant amounts in future repair and maintenance costs.
Why Choose PVC Sheeting?
PVC sheeting is an excellent choice due to its flexibility and high stretchability of over 300%. It also has good resistance to low temperatures, aggressive water, and aging. Additionally, it can be easily welded and repaired and has good mechanical and high tear strength.
The major advantages of the PVC membrane are the very efficient and fast application process and weldability characteristics. The PVC membrane can be laid and welded on moist/wet areas. On the other hand, it also allows insulation of uneven substrates, which is a considerable advantage over other sheet membranes.
Flexible Membrane Waterproofing for Road and Subway Tunnels
Flexible membrane waterproofing is a solution that can prevent various negative effects in road and subway tunnels, including:
- Efflorescence and Blisters in Paint
- Ingress of Percolate Water
- Dropping Water Inside the Tunnel
- Bloom of Chalk or Cement on Walls Inside
- Wet Construction Joints
- Wet Surfaces
- Icicles and Ice on Roadway
- Elevation of Runway Due to Frost
- Ingress of Water at Cracks, Construction Joints, Dilatation Joints, Honeycombs
- Destruction of Inner Concrete Lining by Frost and Aggressive Water
- Destruction of Reinforcement by Aggressive Water
- Corrosion of Fixations, Destruction of Cables and Hoses of Various Installations (Lightning, Telecommunication, Traffic-Control, etc.)
Summary
Tunnel builders are well aware of the difficulties and risks associated with achieving a watertight tunnel lining. The construction authorities have stringent requirements in this regard. The conventional method of using rigid sealing has proven inadequate, as it cannot prevent crack formation caused by concrete cooling and subsequent rock settlements.
Fortunately, flexible sealing membranes have been widely used in underground construction for over 25 years and have emerged as the preferred choice for ensuring complete insulation tightness. With technological advancements, it is now possible to specify a tunnel waterproofing system that offers a cost-effective solution for maintaining a dry tunnel environment.