A method for preventing seepage in cooling tower pool walls

Abstract

This invention provides a method for preventing seepage in cooling tower pool walls, relating to the field of cooling tower technology. The method specifically includes the following steps: S1. Bionic substrate treatment; S2. Intelligent sensing waterproof layer; S3. Bionic self-healing waterproof membrane laying; S4. Intelligent sensing and feedback system; S5. Bionic superhydrophobic surface treatment; S6. Composite sealing treatment. This invention's method for preventing seepage in cooling tower pool walls achieves excellent seepage prevention. The bionic substrate treatment and nano-coating provide basic waterproofing performance, the intelligent sensing waterproof layer and self-healing membrane ensure the durability and self-healing ability of the waterproof layer, and the intelligent sensing and feedback system enables real-time monitoring and maintenance. This novel seepage prevention method significantly improves the seepage prevention effect and service life of cooling tower pool walls.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of cooling tower technology, specifically to a method for preventing seepage in the walls of a cooling tower pool. Background Technology

[0002] The cooling tower pool walls are a structural component at the bottom of the cooling tower, primarily used to store cooling water. These pool walls are typically made of concrete or other waterproof materials, and their main function is to ensure that water does not leak into the ground or the surrounding environment. Waterproofing the cooling tower pool walls is crucial because without it, the stored water may leak through cracks or holes, leading to water waste. Water leakage can also erode the concrete structure, reducing its stability and lifespan, thus increasing maintenance costs and potential safety risks. Untreated water may contain chemicals, minerals, or other materials that, if leaked into the soil or groundwater, can harm the environment. Therefore, by employing appropriate waterproof materials and techniques to waterproof the cooling tower pool walls, these problems can be effectively solved, ensuring the efficient and stable operation of the cooling system and environmental safety.

[0003] Existing methods for preventing seepage in cooling tower pool walls use traditional waterproof coatings such as asphalt-based coatings and polyurethane coatings, applied by brushing, rolling, or spraying to cover the pool wall surface. Their waterproofing performance is limited, and they are prone to failure due to physical damage or aging. They lack self-healing capabilities and require frequent maintenance and repairs. The waterproofing effect is greatly affected by the coating thickness and construction quality. Alternatively, waterproof membranes, such as PVC membranes or EPDM rubber membranes, can be laid on the pool wall surface using adhesives or mechanical fixing methods. However, joint treatment is complex, and leakage problems are prone to occur. They are susceptible to mechanical damage and require regular inspection and maintenance. Construction is difficult and requires professional operation. Another method involves brushing or spraying cement-based penetrating crystalline materials onto the pool wall surface. The active chemicals in the material penetrate into the concrete, reacting with free calcium within to form insoluble crystals that prevent moisture penetration. However, the waterproofing effect is greatly affected by the quality of the concrete. Its applicability is limited, mainly suitable for newly constructed concrete structures. It is ineffective against large cracks and needs to be used in conjunction with other waterproofing measures. Alternatively, specialized equipment can be used to spray polyurea waterproof coating onto the pool wall surface, forming a continuous, seamless waterproof layer. This method requires advanced equipment and technical expertise, resulting in higher costs. Strict substrate preparation is essential; uneven or improperly prepared substrates will affect the waterproofing effect. It lacks self-healing capabilities and requires regular maintenance.

[0004] Therefore, the present invention proposes a method for preventing seepage in the walls of cooling towers to solve the problems mentioned above. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a method for preventing seepage in cooling tower pool walls, which solves the problems of existing methods requiring long-term maintenance, high costs, and poor construction quality.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a method for preventing seepage in the wall of a cooling tower, specifically comprising the following steps:

[0007] S1. Biomimetic substrate treatment

[0008] Computer-aided design software is used to create 3D models with microscopic biomimetic structures. These structures can mimic the microscopic protrusions and depressions on the surface of lotus leaves. The designed biomimetic structures are directly printed onto the cooling tower pool wall substrate using a 3D printer. The printing material is silicon oxide-based ceramic. Then, siloxane coating is evenly sprayed onto the surface of the biomimetic structure.

[0009] S2. Intelligent Sensing Waterproof Layer

[0010] Nickel-titanium alloy is mechanically ground into microparticles to ensure uniform particle size. The microparticles are then cleaned and dried to remove surface oxides and impurities, resulting in shape memory alloy microparticles. Polyurethane-based shape memory polymer is dissolved in acetone to prepare a homogeneous polymer solution. Appropriate amounts of dispersant and thickener are added to adjust the viscosity and flowability of the solution, creating a shape memory polymer solution. The prepared shape memory alloy microparticles are gradually added to the shape memory polymer solution and stirred until uniform dispersion is ensured. An appropriate amount of stabilizer is added to prevent the microparticles from settling in the coating, ultimately creating a smart sensing waterproof layer. This smart sensing waterproof layer is then applied to cover all areas of the pool wall.

[0011] S3. Bionic self-healing waterproof membrane installation

[0012] Polysiloxane is dissolved in toluene to prepare a homogeneous polymer solution. Silica is then used to prepare nanoparticles via chemical precipitation, sol-gel method, or mechanical grinding, ensuring uniform nanoparticle size within the range of 20-100 nanometers. The nanoparticles are surface-treated with a silane coupling agent to improve their compatibility with the polymer matrix. After surface treatment, the nanoparticles are dried. The treated nanoparticles are then gradually added to the polymer solution and dispersed using ultrasonic oscillation or a high-speed stirrer to ensure uniform distribution. Appropriate amounts of plasticizer and crosslinking agent are added as needed to adjust the mechanical properties and self-healing ability of the composite material. The mixture is thoroughly stirred and then degassed to remove air bubbles, resulting in the final product, which is then laid on the bottom of the pool wall.

[0013] S4. Intelligent Sensing and Feedback System

[0014] Sensors are embedded in key locations on the pool wall. These sensors include humidity sensors, stress sensors, and temperature sensors. The sensors transmit the collected data to the central control system in real time via a wireless transmission module. The central control system analyzes the sensor data in real time, automatically issues an alarm when leakage is detected, and initiates a repair mechanism.

[0015] S5. Biomimetic superhydrophobic surface treatment

[0016] The biomimetic superhydrophobic nano-coating is made of nano-silica or fluoropolymer coating. Then, a spraying device is used to evenly spray the biomimetic superhydrophobic nano-coating onto the surface of the pool wall to ensure complete coverage.

[0017] S6. Composite sealing treatment

[0018] Use a multi-layer composite sealant, including a flexible polymer layer and a high-strength nanofiber layer, to ensure the sealing of all seams and edges. Apply the composite sealant evenly along the edges and seams of the pool wall and compact and smooth it with a special tool.

[0019] Preferably, the computer-aided design software used in the biomimetic substrate processing step S1 is any one of CAD, 3ds Max, Rhinoceros, or SolidWorks.

[0020] Preferably, before the biomimetic substrate treatment in step S1, dust, oil stains, and loose particulate impurities on the surface of the pool wall need to be removed to ensure that the surface is clean, and cement mortar or repair materials are used to fill cracks and pits on the surface of the pool wall to ensure that the surface is flat.

[0021] Preferably, the proportions of raw materials used in the preparation of the intelligent sensing waterproof layer in step S2 are as follows: 20-30 parts nickel-titanium alloy, 65-75 parts polyurethane-based shape memory polymer, 1-3 parts dispersant, 1-2 parts thickener, and 0.5-1 part stabilizer. The intelligent sensing waterproof layer is applied twice, with the first application having a thickness of 0.3 mm-0.5 mm and the second application having a thickness of 0.3 mm-0.5 mm after drying.

[0022] Preferably, in step S3, the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane is laid by gradually pasting the waterproof membrane from the bottom of the pool wall to ensure that the membrane is tightly attached to the pool wall, with an overlap of at least 10 centimeters. Special equipment is used to compact the waterproof membrane to ensure that there are no air bubbles or gaps.

[0023] Preferably, the specific proportions of the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane in step S3, when laying the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane, are as follows: 60-80 parts of polymer matrix polysiloxane, 20-40 parts of nanoparticle silica, 5-30 parts of solvent toluene, 0.5-1 part of coupling agent silane coupling agent, 1-2 parts of plasticizer dibutyl phthalate, and 0.5-1 part of crosslinking agent dicyandiamide.

[0024] Preferably, in the composite sealing process of step S6, the flexible polymer layer is a polyurethane elastomer with a thickness of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, and the high-strength nanofiber layer is carbon nanofiber with a thickness of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0025] This invention provides a method for preventing seepage in the walls of cooling tower pools. It has the following beneficial effects:

[0026] This invention provides a method for preventing seepage in cooling tower pool walls. By mimicking the microstructure of a lotus leaf surface through a biomimetic structure and combining it with a nano-coating material, the hydrophobic properties of the pool wall surface are significantly improved, making it difficult for water droplets to adhere and penetrate. The superhydrophobicity and anti-fouling capabilities of the nano-coating allow the surface to maintain a long-term waterproof effect, preventing it from being covered by dirt and deposits. The intelligent sensing waterproof coating automatically adjusts its microstructure when temperature or pressure changes, enhancing its waterproof performance and maintaining excellent waterproofing under different environmental conditions. The biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane has high elasticity and self-healing capabilities, enabling it to quickly repair itself when subjected to physical damage, extending the service life of the waterproof layer. Intelligent sensors embedded in the pool wall can monitor the status and leakage of the waterproof layer in real time, ensuring its integrity. When the system detects leakage, it automatically issues an early warning and initiates a repair mechanism to quickly resolve the problem, reducing maintenance costs and time. A multi-layer composite sealing material, including a flexible polymer layer and a high-strength nanofiber layer, ensures the sealing performance of the pool wall joints and edges, preventing leakage. The high strength of the composite material... The waterproof layer's high strength and weather resistance enable it to withstand various environmental stresses, such as ultraviolet radiation, chemical corrosion, and mechanical wear, maintaining long-term stability. The application of self-healing functions and intelligent maintenance systems reduces the frequency of manual inspection and repair, lowering maintenance costs. The durability and self-healing ability of the waterproof layer significantly extend the service life of the cooling tower pool wall, reducing the frequency and cost of overall replacement. From substrate treatment and intelligent coating to composite sealing layers, it provides comprehensive seepage protection, ensuring efficient operation of the pool wall in various complex environments. Through the integration of intelligent sensing and feedback systems, real-time monitoring and automatic maintenance of the waterproof layer are achieved, improving the overall performance of the system. This invention's cooling tower pool wall seepage prevention treatment method, by combining biomimetic technology, intelligent materials, and modern monitoring technology, significantly improves the performance of the waterproof layer. Its high-efficiency waterproofing, self-healing ability, real-time monitoring, durability, economy, and environmental friendliness give it outstanding comprehensive advantages in practical applications. This novel seepage prevention treatment method not only improves the seepage prevention effect and service life of the cooling tower pool wall but also greatly reduces maintenance costs and environmental impact. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0028] Example 1

[0029] This invention provides a method for preventing seepage in the walls of a cooling tower, specifically including the following steps:

[0030] S1. Biomimetic substrate treatment

[0031] Computer-aided design software is used to create 3D models with microscopic biomimetic structures. These structures can mimic the microscopic protrusions and depressions on the surface of lotus leaves. The designed biomimetic structures are directly printed onto the cooling tower pool wall substrate using a 3D printer. The printing material is silicon oxide-based ceramic. Then, siloxane coating is evenly sprayed onto the surface of the biomimetic structure.

[0032] S2. Intelligent Sensing Waterproof Layer

[0033] Nickel-titanium alloy is mechanically ground into microparticles to ensure uniform particle size. The microparticles are then cleaned and dried to remove surface oxides and impurities, resulting in shape memory alloy microparticles. Polyurethane-based shape memory polymer is dissolved in acetone to prepare a homogeneous polymer solution. Appropriate amounts of dispersant and thickener are added to adjust the viscosity and flowability of the solution, creating a shape memory polymer solution. The prepared shape memory alloy microparticles are gradually added to the shape memory polymer solution and stirred until uniform dispersion is ensured. An appropriate amount of stabilizer is added to prevent the microparticles from settling in the coating, ultimately creating a smart sensing waterproof layer. This smart sensing waterproof layer is then applied to cover all areas of the pool wall.

[0034] S3. Bionic self-healing waterproof membrane installation

[0035] Polysiloxane is dissolved in toluene to prepare a homogeneous polymer solution. Silica is then used to prepare nanoparticles via chemical precipitation, sol-gel method, or mechanical grinding, ensuring uniform nanoparticle size within the range of 20-100 nanometers. The nanoparticles are surface-treated with a silane coupling agent to improve their compatibility with the polymer matrix. After surface treatment, the nanoparticles are dried. The treated nanoparticles are then gradually added to the polymer solution and dispersed using ultrasonic oscillation or a high-speed stirrer to ensure uniform distribution. Appropriate amounts of plasticizer and crosslinking agent are added as needed to adjust the mechanical properties and self-healing ability of the composite material. The mixture is thoroughly stirred and then degassed to remove air bubbles, resulting in the final product, which is then laid on the bottom of the pool wall.

[0036] S4. Intelligent Sensing and Feedback System

[0037] Sensors are embedded in key locations on the pool wall. These sensors include humidity sensors, stress sensors, and temperature sensors. The sensors transmit the collected data to the central control system in real time via a wireless transmission module. The central control system analyzes the sensor data in real time, automatically issues an alarm when leakage is detected, and initiates a repair mechanism.

[0038] S5. Biomimetic superhydrophobic surface treatment

[0039] The biomimetic superhydrophobic nano-coating is made of nano-silica or fluoropolymer coating. Then, a spraying device is used to evenly spray the biomimetic superhydrophobic nano-coating onto the surface of the pool wall to ensure complete coverage.

[0040] S6. Composite sealing treatment

[0041] Use a multi-layer composite sealant, including a flexible polymer layer and a high-strength nanofiber layer, to ensure the sealing of all seams and edges. Apply the composite sealant evenly along the edges and seams of the pool wall and compact and smooth it with a special tool.

[0042] The computer-aided design software used in step S1, biomimetic substrate processing, is CAD.

[0043] Before the biomimetic substrate treatment in step S1, dust, oil, and loose particles on the surface of the pool wall must be removed to ensure that the surface is clean. Cement mortar or repair materials should be used to fill cracks and pits on the surface of the pool wall to ensure that the surface is flat.

[0044] In step S2, the proportions of raw materials used in the preparation of the intelligent sensing waterproof layer are as follows: 20 parts nickel-titanium alloy, 65 parts polyurethane-based shape memory polymer, 1 part dispersant, 1 part thickener, and 0.5 parts stabilizer. The intelligent sensing waterproof layer is applied twice, with the first application having a thickness of 0.3 mm and the second application having a thickness of 0.3 mm after drying.

[0045] In step S3, during the installation of the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane, the waterproof membrane is gradually pasted from the bottom of the pool wall, ensuring that the membrane adheres tightly to the pool wall with an overlap of at least 10 centimeters. Special equipment is used to compact the waterproof membrane to ensure that there are no air bubbles or gaps.

[0046] In step S3, the specific proportions of the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane during its installation are as follows: 60 parts of polymer matrix polysiloxane, 20 parts of nanoparticle silica, 5 parts of solvent toluene, 0.5 parts of coupling agent silane coupling agent, 1 part of plasticizer dibutyl phthalate, and 0.5 parts of crosslinking agent dicyandiamide.

[0047] In step S6, the flexible polymer layer in the composite sealing process is a polyurethane elastomer with a thickness of 0.5 mm, and the high-strength nanofiber layer is carbon nanofiber with a thickness of 0.1 mm.

[0048] Example 2

[0049] This invention provides a method for preventing seepage in the walls of a cooling tower, specifically including the following steps:

[0050] S1. Biomimetic substrate treatment

[0051] Computer-aided design software is used to create 3D models with microscopic biomimetic structures. These structures can mimic the microscopic protrusions and depressions on the surface of lotus leaves. The designed biomimetic structures are directly printed onto the cooling tower pool wall substrate using a 3D printer. The printing material is silicon oxide-based ceramic. Then, siloxane coating is evenly sprayed onto the surface of the biomimetic structure.

[0052] S2. Intelligent Sensing Waterproof Layer

[0053] Nickel-titanium alloy is mechanically ground into microparticles to ensure uniform particle size. The microparticles are then cleaned and dried to remove surface oxides and impurities, resulting in shape memory alloy microparticles. Polyurethane-based shape memory polymer is dissolved in acetone to prepare a homogeneous polymer solution. Appropriate amounts of dispersant and thickener are added to adjust the viscosity and flowability of the solution, creating a shape memory polymer solution. The prepared shape memory alloy microparticles are gradually added to the shape memory polymer solution and stirred until uniform dispersion is ensured. An appropriate amount of stabilizer is added to prevent the microparticles from settling in the coating, ultimately creating a smart sensing waterproof layer. This smart sensing waterproof layer is then applied to cover all areas of the pool wall.

[0054] S3. Bionic self-healing waterproof membrane installation

[0055] Polysiloxane is dissolved in toluene to prepare a homogeneous polymer solution. Silica is then used to prepare nanoparticles via chemical precipitation, sol-gel method, or mechanical grinding, ensuring uniform nanoparticle size within the range of 20-100 nanometers. The nanoparticles are surface-treated with a silane coupling agent to improve their compatibility with the polymer matrix. After surface treatment, the nanoparticles are dried. The treated nanoparticles are then gradually added to the polymer solution and dispersed using ultrasonic oscillation or a high-speed stirrer to ensure uniform distribution. Appropriate amounts of plasticizer and crosslinking agent are added as needed to adjust the mechanical properties and self-healing ability of the composite material. The mixture is thoroughly stirred and then degassed to remove air bubbles, resulting in the final product, which is then laid on the bottom of the pool wall.

[0056] S4. Intelligent Sensing and Feedback System

[0057] Sensors are embedded in key locations on the pool wall. These sensors include humidity sensors, stress sensors, and temperature sensors. The sensors transmit the collected data to the central control system in real time via a wireless transmission module. The central control system analyzes the sensor data in real time, automatically issues an alarm when leakage is detected, and initiates a repair mechanism.

[0058] S5. Biomimetic superhydrophobic surface treatment

[0059] The biomimetic superhydrophobic nano-coating is made of nano-silica or fluoropolymer coating. Then, a spraying device is used to evenly spray the biomimetic superhydrophobic nano-coating onto the surface of the pool wall to ensure complete coverage.

[0060] S6. Composite sealing treatment

[0061] Use a multi-layer composite sealant, including a flexible polymer layer and a high-strength nanofiber layer, to ensure the sealing of all seams and edges. Apply the composite sealant evenly along the edges and seams of the pool wall and compact and smooth it with a special tool.

[0062] The computer-aided design software used in step S1, biomimetic substrate processing, is 3ds Max.

[0063] Before the biomimetic substrate treatment in step S1, dust, oil, and loose particles on the surface of the pool wall must be removed to ensure that the surface is clean. Cement mortar or repair materials should be used to fill cracks and pits on the surface of the pool wall to ensure that the surface is flat.

[0064] In step S2, the proportions of raw materials used in the preparation of the intelligent sensing waterproof layer are as follows: 20-30 parts nickel-titanium alloy, 70 parts polyurethane-based shape memory polymer, 2 parts dispersant, 1.5 parts thickener, and 0.7 parts stabilizer. The intelligent sensing waterproof layer is applied twice, with the first application having a thickness of 0.4 mm and the second application having a thickness of 0.4 mm after drying.

[0065] In step S3, during the installation of the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane, the waterproof membrane is gradually pasted from the bottom of the pool wall, ensuring that the membrane adheres tightly to the pool wall with an overlap of at least 10 centimeters. Special equipment is used to compact the waterproof membrane to ensure that there are no air bubbles or gaps.

[0066] In step S3, the specific proportions of the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane during its installation are as follows: 70 parts of polymer matrix polysiloxane, 30 parts of nanoparticle silica, 17 parts of solvent toluene, 0.7 parts of coupling agent silane coupling agent, 1.5 parts of plasticizer dibutyl phthalate, and 0.7 parts of crosslinking agent dicyandiamide.

[0067] In step S6, the flexible polymer layer in the composite sealing process is a polyurethane elastomer with a thickness of 1.5 mm, and the high-strength nanofiber layer is carbon nanofiber with a thickness of 0.3 mm.

[0068] Example 3

[0069] This invention provides a method for preventing seepage in the walls of a cooling tower, specifically including the following steps:

[0070] S1. Biomimetic substrate treatment

[0071] Computer-aided design software is used to create 3D models with microscopic biomimetic structures. These structures can mimic the microscopic protrusions and depressions on the surface of lotus leaves. The designed biomimetic structures are directly printed onto the cooling tower pool wall substrate using a 3D printer. The printing material is silicon oxide-based ceramic. Then, siloxane coating is evenly sprayed onto the surface of the biomimetic structure.

[0072] S2. Intelligent Sensing Waterproof Layer

[0073] Nickel-titanium alloy is mechanically ground into microparticles to ensure uniform particle size. The microparticles are then cleaned and dried to remove surface oxides and impurities, resulting in shape memory alloy microparticles. Polyurethane-based shape memory polymer is dissolved in acetone to prepare a homogeneous polymer solution. Appropriate amounts of dispersant and thickener are added to adjust the viscosity and flowability of the solution, creating a shape memory polymer solution. The prepared shape memory alloy microparticles are gradually added to the shape memory polymer solution and stirred until uniform dispersion is ensured. An appropriate amount of stabilizer is added to prevent the microparticles from settling in the coating, ultimately creating a smart sensing waterproof layer. This smart sensing waterproof layer is then applied to cover all areas of the pool wall.

[0074] S3. Bionic self-healing waterproof membrane installation

[0075] Polysiloxane is dissolved in toluene to prepare a homogeneous polymer solution. Silica is then used to prepare nanoparticles via chemical precipitation, sol-gel method, or mechanical grinding, ensuring uniform nanoparticle size within the range of 20-100 nanometers. The nanoparticles are surface-treated with a silane coupling agent to improve their compatibility with the polymer matrix. After surface treatment, the nanoparticles are dried. The treated nanoparticles are then gradually added to the polymer solution and dispersed using ultrasonic oscillation or a high-speed stirrer to ensure uniform distribution. Appropriate amounts of plasticizer and crosslinking agent are added as needed to adjust the mechanical properties and self-healing ability of the composite material. The mixture is thoroughly stirred and then degassed to remove air bubbles, resulting in the final product, which is then laid on the bottom of the pool wall.

[0076] S4. Intelligent Sensing and Feedback System

[0077] Sensors are embedded in key locations on the pool wall. These sensors include humidity sensors, stress sensors, and temperature sensors. The sensors transmit the collected data to the central control system in real time via a wireless transmission module. The central control system analyzes the sensor data in real time, automatically issues an alarm when leakage is detected, and initiates a repair mechanism.

[0078] S5. Biomimetic superhydrophobic surface treatment

[0079] The biomimetic superhydrophobic nano-coating is made of nano-silica or fluoropolymer coating. Then, a spraying device is used to evenly spray the biomimetic superhydrophobic nano-coating onto the surface of the pool wall to ensure complete coverage.

[0080] S6. Composite sealing treatment

[0081] Use a multi-layer composite sealant, including a flexible polymer layer and a high-strength nanofiber layer, to ensure the sealing of all seams and edges. Apply the composite sealant evenly along the edges and seams of the pool wall and compact and smooth it with a special tool.

[0082] The computer-aided design software used in step S1, biomimetic substrate processing, is SolidWorks.

[0083] Before the biomimetic substrate treatment in step S1, dust, oil, and loose particles on the surface of the pool wall must be removed to ensure that the surface is clean. Cement mortar or repair materials should be used to fill cracks and pits on the surface of the pool wall to ensure that the surface is flat.

[0084] In step S2, the proportions of raw materials used in the preparation of the intelligent sensing waterproof layer are as follows: 30 parts nickel-titanium alloy, 75 parts polyurethane-based shape memory polymer, 3 parts dispersant, 2 parts thickener, and 1 part stabilizer. The intelligent sensing waterproof layer is applied twice, with the first application having a thickness of 0.5 mm and the second application having a thickness of 0.5 mm after drying.

[0085] In step S3, during the installation of the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane, the waterproof membrane is gradually pasted from the bottom of the pool wall, ensuring that the membrane adheres tightly to the pool wall with an overlap of at least 10 centimeters. Special equipment is used to compact the waterproof membrane to ensure that there are no air bubbles or gaps.

[0086] In step S3, the specific ratio of the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane during its installation is as follows: 80 parts of polymer matrix polysiloxane, 40 parts of nanoparticle silica, 30 parts of solvent toluene, 1 part of coupling agent silane coupling agent, 2 parts of plasticizer dibutyl phthalate, and 1 part of crosslinking agent dicyandiamide.

[0087] In step S6, the composite sealing process involves a flexible polymer layer made of polyurethane elastomer with a thickness of 2 mm and a high-strength nanofiber layer made of carbon nanofiber with a thickness of 0.5 mm.

[0088] The method of this invention establishes a series of protective layers through multiple steps S1 to S6, each layer designed for different seepage prevention needs. From biomimetic substrate treatment to intelligent sensing waterproof layer, and then to composite sealing treatment, each layer provides additional protection for the cooling tower, greatly enhancing the overall seepage prevention effect.

[0089] By mimicking the surface structure of lotus leaves in nature, a surface that effectively repels water is created, enhancing waterproofing and extending the structure's lifespan by reducing water droplet adhesion. Utilizing the properties of shape memory alloys and polymers, the fabricated intelligent sensing waterproof layer can trigger self-repair upon detecting cracks or damage, thus maintaining its impermeability without human intervention.

[0090] 3D printing technology is used to precisely construct the surface structure of the cooling tower pool wall, ensuring accurate design implementation, which is difficult to achieve with traditional manufacturing techniques. By embedding humidity, stress, and temperature sensors, the pool wall condition is monitored in real time, and the data is analyzed through a central control system. Once leakage is detected, the system can automatically issue an alarm and initiate a repair mechanism, improving maintenance efficiency and safety.

[0091] The waterproof membrane possesses self-healing capabilities, automatically repairing itself to everyday wear and minor damage, extending the material's lifespan and reducing maintenance costs. The application of a superhydrophobic nano-coating further enhances the surface's waterproof performance while reducing contaminant adhesion, facilitating cleaning and maintenance. The use of composite sealing materials ensures effective sealing of all joints and edges, significantly improving the overall structure's impermeability.

[0092] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for preventing seepage in the wall of a cooling tower pool, characterized in that, Specifically, the following steps are included: S1. Biomimetic substrate treatment Computer-aided design software was used to create 3D models with microscopic biomimetic structures that mimic the microscopic protrusions and depressions on the surface of lotus leaves. The designed biomimetic structures were then printed directly onto the cooling tower pool wall substrate using a 3D printer. The printing material was silicon oxide-based ceramic. Finally, siloxane coating was uniformly sprayed onto the surface of the biomimetic structures. S2. Intelligent Sensing Waterproof Layer Nickel-titanium alloy is mechanically ground into microparticles to ensure uniform particle size. The microparticles are then cleaned and dried to remove surface oxides and impurities, resulting in shape memory alloy microparticles. Polyurethane-based shape memory polymer is dissolved in acetone to prepare a homogeneous polymer solution. Appropriate amounts of dispersant and thickener are added to adjust the viscosity and flowability of the solution, creating a shape memory polymer solution. The prepared shape memory alloy microparticles are gradually added to the shape memory polymer solution and stirred until uniform dispersion is ensured. An appropriate amount of stabilizer is added to prevent the microparticles from settling in the coating, ultimately creating a smart sensing waterproof layer. This smart sensing waterproof layer is then applied to cover all areas of the pool wall. S3. Bionic self-healing waterproof membrane installation Polysiloxane is dissolved in toluene to prepare a homogeneous polymer solution. Silica is then used to prepare nanoparticles via chemical precipitation, sol-gel method, or mechanical grinding, ensuring uniform nanoparticle size within the range of 20-100 nanometers. The nanoparticles are surface-treated with a silane coupling agent to improve their compatibility with the polymer matrix. After surface treatment, the nanoparticles are dried. The treated nanoparticles are then gradually added to the polymer solution and dispersed using ultrasonic oscillation or a high-speed stirrer to ensure uniform distribution. Appropriate amounts of plasticizer and crosslinking agent are added as needed to adjust the mechanical properties and self-healing ability of the composite material. The mixture is thoroughly stirred and then degassed to remove air bubbles, resulting in the final product, which is then laid on the bottom of the pool wall. S4. Intelligent Sensing and Feedback System Sensors are embedded in key locations on the pool wall. These sensors include humidity sensors, stress sensors, and temperature sensors. The sensors transmit the collected data to the central control system in real time via a wireless transmission module. The central control system analyzes the sensor data in real time, automatically issues an alarm when leakage is detected, and initiates a repair mechanism. S5. Biomimetic superhydrophobic surface treatment The biomimetic superhydrophobic nano-coating is made of nano-silica or fluoropolymer coating. Then, a spraying device is used to evenly spray the biomimetic superhydrophobic nano-coating onto the surface of the pool wall to ensure complete coverage. S6. Composite sealing treatment Use a multi-layer composite sealant, including a flexible polymer layer and a high-strength nanofiber layer, to ensure the sealing of all seams and edges. Apply the composite sealant evenly along the edges and seams of the pool wall and compact and smooth it with a special tool.

2. The method for preventing seepage in a cooling tower pool wall according to claim 1, characterized in that: The computer-aided design software used in step S1, biomimetic substrate processing, is any one of CAD, 3ds Max, or SolidWorks.

3. The method for preventing seepage in a cooling tower pool wall according to claim 1, characterized in that: Before the biomimetic substrate treatment in step S1, dust, oil, and loose particles on the surface of the pool wall must be removed to ensure the surface is clean. Cement mortar or repair materials should be used to fill cracks and pits on the surface of the pool wall to ensure a smooth surface.

4. The method for preventing seepage in a cooling tower pool wall according to claim 1, characterized in that: In step S2, the proportions of raw materials used in the preparation of the intelligent sensing waterproof layer are as follows: 20-30 parts nickel-titanium alloy, 65-75 parts polyurethane-based shape memory polymer, 1-3 parts dispersant, 1-2 parts thickener, and 0.5-1 part stabilizer. The intelligent sensing waterproof layer is applied twice, with the first application having a thickness of 0.3-0.5 mm and the second application having a thickness of 0.3-0.5 mm after drying.

5. The method for preventing seepage in a cooling tower pool wall according to claim 1, characterized in that: In step S3, the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane is laid by gradually pasting the waterproof membrane from the bottom of the pool wall, ensuring that the membrane is tightly attached to the pool wall, with an overlap of at least 10 centimeters. Special equipment is used to compact the waterproof membrane to ensure that there are no air bubbles or gaps.

6. The method for preventing seepage in a cooling tower pool wall according to claim 1, characterized in that: In step S3, the specific proportions of the biomimetic self-healing waterproof membrane during its installation are as follows: 60-80 parts of polymer matrix polysiloxane, 20-40 parts of nanoparticle silica, 5-30 parts of solvent toluene, 0.5-1 part of coupling agent silane coupling agent, 1-2 parts of plasticizer dibutyl phthalate, and 0.5-1 part of crosslinking agent dicyandiamide.

7. The method for preventing seepage in a cooling tower pool wall according to claim 1, characterized in that: In step S6, the flexible polymer layer is a polyurethane elastomer with a thickness of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, and the high-strength nanofiber layer is carbon nanofiber with a thickness of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm.