Completely-bonded water blocking strip

Abstract

The invention relates to a sealing element for sealing a seam in a concrete structure, comprising a profile (2) having a central portion (3) and first and second side portions (4, 5) on opposite sides of the central portion (3). The sides (4, 5) of the profile are at least partially covered with a functional coating (6) which can be implemented to bond with a fresh cementitious composition cast thereon and which allows hardening. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing the sealing element, to a method for sealing a seam between two parts of concrete, to a sealed structure, and to the use of the sealing element for sealing a seam in a concrete structure.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. 201880028732.8. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to sealing elements and their use in sealing concrete joints to prevent water seepage. In particular, this invention relates to sealing elements suitable for sealing joints formed between continuously cast portions of concrete. Such sealing elements are commonly referred to as waterbars and water-blocking elements. Background Technology

[0003] Polymer sheets, commonly known as waterproof membranes, are frequently used in the construction industry to seal substrates, underground surfaces, or buildings to prevent water penetration. For example, waterproof membranes are applied to prevent water from entering through cracks in concrete structures caused by building settlement, load shifting, or concrete shrinkage. Furthermore, large concrete structures, such as slabs, dams, tanks, and foundations, cannot be cast as single units; therefore, they contain numerous joints formed between concrete sections. These concrete joints must also be sealed to prevent water from entering and passing through them.

[0004] Waterproof profiles, also known as water barriers or waterproofing strips, are commonly used to seal concrete joints. They are available in a variety of compositions, shapes, and sizes to suit different types of concrete structures and sealing applications. Joints are provided between adjacent concrete sections to accommodate anticipated physical changes in the concrete under environmental and mechanical conditions, or to facilitate the construction and placement of the concrete. These physical changes may be due to the drying, shrinkage, carbonation, or creep of the concrete blocks, or loads applied to the concrete. In the latter case, joints may form, for example, due to planned or unplanned interruptions in concrete placement.

[0005] Expansion joints are formed at regular intervals in concrete structures to accommodate movement caused by the expansion of concrete blocks. Expansion joints are also often designed to isolate structural elements from each other, such as walls or columns from floors and roofs, pavements from bridge decks, or where wall elements change direction. Shrinkage joints are used to regulate cracks that occur due to unavoidable and unpredictable shrinkage during concrete hardening. Shrinkage joints can be created during concrete pouring by forming joints with slabs or by cutting joints after construction. Construction joints may occur at certain locations during the placement of large quantities of concrete due to planned or unplanned interruptions. In these cases, no dimensional changes in the concrete mass are expected, and therefore construction joints do not have a predetermined expansion gap.

[0006] Existing water-blocking elements are strip profiles having a central portion and two side portions or side flanges located on opposite sides of the central portion, the central portion being positioned along or within a concrete joint. Water-blocking elements are provided in various shapes and sizes to suit the requirements of sealing applications. Flat and dumbbell-shaped water-blocking elements are commonly used for sealing building and contraction joints, while water-blocking elements with expansion elements (such as a "center bubble") are used for sealing expansion joints. Center bubbles are typically provided as hollow profiles, which allow for a greater range of movement in the lateral, lateral, or shear directions without overstretching the material.

[0007] Unlike most other types of sealing elements that are applied in situ after construction, water barriers are typically installed before the concrete structure is poured. Furthermore, water barriers can be installed as external sealing elements, in which case the side flanges are embedded in the back of the concrete, or as internal sealing elements, in which case the side flanges of the water barrier are fully embedded in the concrete. The installation of external water barriers typically involves the following steps: placing the water barrier on the base and pouring concrete sections such that the side flanges are embedded in the back of the cast concrete body, with the central portion positioned along the joint of the formed concrete. External water barriers are also suitable for sealing expansion joints, construction joints, and contraction joints.

[0008] When installing the internal sealing element, the water-blocking component is placed within the joint formed after the concrete is poured, with the central portion positioned in the middle of the planned concrete joint. Installation of the internal water-blocking component can be done, for example, by using separate formwork that allows the water-blocking component to be inserted through the formwork. Typically, at least one side flange is fixed to reinforcing steel to prevent unwanted movement of the water-blocking component during concrete pouring. After the first section of concrete is poured, the formwork is removed, and then the second section of concrete is poured. If it is an expansion joint, an expansion plate or filler plate is typically placed in the joint opening after the formwork has been removed and before the second section of concrete is poured. This expansion plate is composed of compressible materials, such as foam- and fiber-based materials, which absorb the expansion and contraction movements of the adjacent concrete mass. The construction of separate formwork is generally considered difficult because recesses must be provided in the formwork during the first section of concrete pouring to accommodate the water-blocking component. The use of separate formwork can be avoided, for example, by using separate water-blocking components. In this case, a side flange is divided into two parts to allow the flange to be fixed along the vertical surface of the continuous formwork. After the first section of concrete is poured, the formwork is removed, and the separate sections of the side flange are bonded together before the second section of concrete is poured.

[0009] Common materials for water-blocking components include metals and, in particular, non-metallic materials such as butyl rubber, nitrile rubber, and EPDM rubber, as well as thermoplastics such as PVC. These materials do not adhere to concrete, and therefore the side flanges of the water-blocking components feature multiple raised ribs, fins, or other protrusions that provide mechanical bonding or interlocking within the concrete structure, offering a mechanical seal to prevent water flow when embedded in the concrete. Strip profiles made of thermoplastic materials can be easily produced using extrusion technology, but the complexity of the shape of the laterally extending flanges complicates the production process and increases production costs. Furthermore, water-blocking components are typically composed of relatively rigid materials to effectively anchor the sides to the concrete structure via the raised ribs and other protrusions. Due to the rigidity of the material, water-blocking components cannot be stored in rolls like waterproof membranes, increasing the amount of space required to store these types of sealing elements.

[0010] Therefore, a new type of water-blocking component is needed, which can be produced at a reduced cost and can improve the sealing of joints formed between cast concrete sections. Invention Overview

[0011] The object of the present invention is to provide a sealing element suitable for sealing concrete joints formed between cast portions of concrete, which can be produced at a reduced cost compared to prior art sealing elements.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a sealing element that, unlike prior art water-blocking elements, can be easily stored in roll form.

[0013] Surprisingly, a sealing element has been found that can solve or at least mitigate problems associated with existing waterproofing systems. This sealing element comprises a profile having a central portion and two side portions on opposite sides of the central portion, the side portions being at least partially covered with a functional coating that can bond to and allow hardening of the fresh cementitious composition into which it is cast.

[0014] The subject of this invention is the sealing element as defined in claim 1.

[0015] One advantage of the sealing element of the present invention is that the sides of the sealing element can be anchored to the concrete structure without the use of ribs or other keying formations, and the sealing element can be fabricated in a simplified shape, which significantly reduces production costs.

[0016] Another advantage of the sealing element of the present invention is that the sealing element can be provided in a reduced size, especially in a reduced length, because the functional coating, after hardening, enables it to permanently bond with the cast concrete.

[0017] Another advantage of the present invention is that the sealing element can be prepared using a flexible material composition, which allows the sealing element to be stored in roll form.

[0018] Other aspects of the invention are set forth in the other independent claims. Preferred aspects of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims. Brief description of the attached figures

[0019] Figure 1 A cross-section of a sealing element (1) according to an embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the sides (4,5) of the profile (2) are in the form of planar elements, wherein the ends of the sides (4,5) are bubble-like protrusions. The central portion (3) of the profile (2) is in the form of a planar element and the top main surface of the sides (4,5) is substantially completely covered with a functional coating (6).

[0020] Figure 2 A cross-section of a sealing element according to an embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the sides (4,5) and the center portion (3) of the profile (2) are in the form of planar elements. The top main surface of the sides (4,5) is substantially completely covered with a functional coating (6), while the top and bottom main surfaces of the center portion (3) are not covered with a functional coating (6).

[0021] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 2 A cross-section of the sealing element is shown in a further embodiment of the sealing element. In this embodiment, both the top and bottom main surfaces of the sides (4,5) are completely covered with a functional coating (6).

[0022] Figure 4 A cross-section of a sealing element according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the central portion (3) of the profile (2) is in the form of an expansion element and the top main surfaces of the sides (4,5) of the profile (2) are substantially completely covered with a functional coating (6).

[0023] Figure 5 Shown in Figure 4 A cross-section of the sealing element is shown in a further embodiment of the sealing element. In this embodiment, the central portion (3) of the profile (2) is in the form of an expansion element and the top and bottom main surfaces of the sides (4,5) of the profile (2) are substantially completely covered with a functional coating (6).

[0024] Figure 6A cross-section of a sealing element according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the central portion (3) of the profile (2) is in the form of an expansion element and the top main surfaces of the sides (4,5) of the profile (2) are substantially completely covered with a functional coating (6). The expansion element is in the form of a hollow profile with an open cross-section.

[0025] Figure 7 Shown in Figure 5 The cross-section of the sealing element is shown in a further embodiment of the sealing element. In this embodiment, the first and second sides (4,5) of the profile (2) have a wedge-shaped cross-section, that is, the cross-sectional thickness of the side (4,5) increases in the longitudinal direction of the side.

[0026] Figure 8 Shown in Figure 4 A cross-section of the sealing element is shown in a further embodiment of the sealing element. In this embodiment, the central portion (3) of the profile (2) is in the form of an expansion element and the top main surface of the side portions (4,5) of the profile (2) is substantially completely covered with a functional coating (6). In addition, the outer main surface of the expansion element is substantially completely covered with a functional coating (6).

[0027] Figure 9 A cross-section of a sealing element according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the central portion (3) of the profile (2) is in the form of an expansion element, and both the top and bottom main surfaces of the sides (4,5) of the profile (2) are substantially completely covered with a functional coating (6). The expansion element is in the form of a hollow profile with an open "bellows-shaped" cross-section. The functional coating covering the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides and the profile of the sealing element are indirectly bonded to each other on their opposing surfaces by a connecting layer (7). Invention Details

[0028] The subject of this invention is a sealing element (1) for sealing joints in concrete structures, the sealing element (1) comprising:

[0029] - A profile (2) having a central portion (3) and first and second side portions (4,5) on opposite sides of the central portion (3), wherein the side portions (4,5) have top and bottom main surfaces, wherein

[0030] -At least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and / or second sides (4,5) is at least partially covered with a functional coating (6), which is implementable to bond with and allow hardening of a fresh cementitious composition cast thereon, and wherein

[0031] -The central part (3) takes the form of a planar element with a top and bottom main surface or

[0032] -The central part (3) takes the form of an expansion element.

[0033] In this article, substance names beginning with "poly" refer to substances that formally contain two or more functional groups per molecule that appear in their name. For example, a polyol is a compound having at least two hydroxyl groups. A polyether is a compound having at least two ether groups.

[0034] The term "polymer" refers to a collection of chemically homogeneous macromolecules produced by polymerization reactions (addition polymerization, polyaddition polymerization, condensation polymerization), wherein the macromolecules differ in their degree of polymerization, molecular weight, and chain length. The term also includes derivatives of the collection of said macromolecules produced by polymerization reactions, i.e., compounds obtained by reactions (e.g., addition or substitution) of functional groups in a predetermined macromolecule, and these compounds may be chemically homogeneous or heterogeneous.

[0035] The term "α-olefin" refers to an alpha-olefin with the molecular formula C60. x H 2x An olefin (x corresponds to the number of carbon atoms) characterized by having a carbon-carbon double bond on the first carbon atom (α-carbon). Examples of α-olefins include ethylene, propylene, 1-butene, 2-methyl-1-propene (isobutene), 1-pentene, 1-hexene, 1-heptene, and 1-octene. For example, according to this document, 1,3-butadiene, 2-butene, or styrene are not referred to as "α-olefins".

[0036] The term "poly-α-olefin" refers to homopolymers and copolymers obtained by polymerization or oligomerization of α-olefins or a variety of different α-olefins.

[0037] The term "(meth)acrylic acid" refers to either methacrylic acid or acrylic acid. Correspondingly, the term "(meth)acrylate" refers to both acrylate and methacrylate.

[0038] The term "dispersion" refers to a physical state of matter comprising at least two distinct phases, wherein the first phase is distributed within the second phase, which is a continuous medium. In particular, a dispersion contains a solid phase, which is dispersed as solid particles in a continuous liquid phase.

[0039] The term "molecular weight" refers to the molar mass (g / mol) of a molecule or a portion of a molecule (also called a "group"). The term "average molecular weight" refers to the number-average molecular weight (M0) of oligomers or polymer mixtures of molecules or groups. n Molecular weight can be determined by gel permeation chromatography.

[0040] The term "softening point" refers to the temperature at which a compound softens in a rubbery state, or the temperature at which the crystalline portion of the compound melts. The softening point can be determined by circumferential measurement according to DIN EN 1238.

[0041] The term "melting temperature" refers to the melting point (Tm) of a crystal, determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) using the method defined in ISO 11357, at a heating rate of 2 °C / min. It can be measured using a Metler Toledo DSC 3+ instrument, and the Tg value can be determined from the measured DSC curve using DSC software.

[0042] The term "glass transition temperature" (Tg) refers to a temperature above which the polymer component becomes soft and flexible, and below which it becomes hard and glassy. The glass transition temperature is preferably determined using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) according to ISO 11357, with a heating rate of 2 °C / min. It can be measured using a Metler Toledo DSC 3+ instrument, and the Tg value can be determined from the measured DSC curve using DSC software.

[0043] The term "particle size" refers to the area equivalent sphere diameter of a particle. Particle size distribution can be measured by laser diffraction according to the method described in standard ISO 13320:2009. To determine particle size distribution, the particles are suspended in water (wet dispersion method). The Mastersizer 2000 instrument (trademark of Malvern Instruments Ltd, GB) can be used to measure particle size distribution.

[0044] The "amount or content of at least one component X" in the composition, such as "amount of at least one thermoplastic polymer P1", refers to the sum of the individual amounts of all thermoplastic polymers P1 contained in the composition. Furthermore, if the composition contains 20 wt% of at least one thermoplastic polymer P1, the sum of the amounts of all thermoplastic polymers P1 contained in the composition equals 20 wt%.

[0045] The term "normal room temperature" refers to a temperature of 23°C.

[0046] The sealing element of the present invention comprises a profile having a central portion and first and second side portions on opposite sides of the central portion. Preferably, the side portions extend outward from the central portion and extend on opposite sides of the central portion. The profile is preferably in the form of a continuous strip of material, the top and bottom main surfaces of which are limited by peripheral edges defining the profile dimensions.

[0047] The sealing element has a top and a bottom main surface, at least one of which is at least partially covered with a functional coating that is implementable for bonding with a cementitious composition cast thereon and allows for hardening. The term "implementable for bonding with a cementitious composition" is understood to mean that the functional coating forms a permanent bond with the cementitious composition cast thereon after hardening.

[0048] The term "cement-based composition" refers to concrete, shotcrete, grout, mortar, paste, or a combination thereof. The terms "paste," "mortar," "concrete," "shotcrete," and "grout" are well-known in the art. A paste is a mixture containing a hydratable cementitious binder, typically Portland cement, masonry cement, or mortar cement. Mortar is a paste that additionally contains fine aggregates, such as sand. Concrete is a mortar that additionally contains coarse aggregates, such as crushed stone or gravel. Shotcrete is concrete (or sometimes mortar) delivered via hose and pneumatically projected onto a surface at high speed. Grout is a particularly flowable form of concrete used to fill voids. Cement-based compositions can be formed by mixing desired amounts of certain components, such as hydratable cement, water, and fine and / or coarse aggregates, to produce a specific cement-based composition. The terms "fresh cement-based composition" or "liquid cement-based composition" refer to a cement-based composition before hardening, particularly before settling.

[0049] The functional coating covering at least a portion of at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and / or second sides, and the profile of the sealing element, can be directly or indirectly connected to each other, preferably on their opposing surfaces. The expression "directly bonded" in the context of this invention should be understood to mean that there is no additional layer or material between the layers, and that the opposing surfaces of the layers are directly bonded or adhered to each other. In the transition region between two layers, the materials of the layers may also be mixed together. The opposing surfaces of the functional coating and the profile of the sealing element can be directly bonded to each other, for example by thermal bonding, or indirectly bonded by a connecting layer (e.g., an adhesive layer or a thermoplastic material layer, or a combination thereof).

[0050] According to one or more embodiments, the ends of the side portions are bubble-shaped protrusions, and the spherical protrusions serve as additional anchoring devices for the sealing element installed in the concrete structure. The size of the spherical protrusions is not particularly limited. It may be advantageous that their diameter exceeds at least 100%, preferably at least 150%, and more preferably at least 200% of the thickness of the corresponding side portion. Preferably, the spherical protrusions have a solid core made of the same material as the profile of the sealing element.

[0051] According to one or more embodiments, the first and second sides are substantially free of locking structures, such as raised ribs, other locking fins extending in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the sealing element and having a height significantly exceeding the thickness of the side. The term "significantly exceeding" should be understood to mean that the height of the locking structure exceeds at least 75%, preferably at least 100%, and more preferably at least 150% of the thickness of the corresponding side. These types of locking structures are commonly used in prior art water-blocking elements to anchor the side to a concrete structure. However, other types of locking structures, whose height does not significantly exceed the thickness of the side, may also exist, even if they are not necessarily preferred.

[0052] According to one or more embodiments, the first and second sides are in the form of planar elements. The term "planar" herein refers to a sheet-like element whose length and width are at least 10 times, preferably at least 25 times, and more preferably at least 50 times, the thickness of the element. Furthermore, the term "planar" should be understood to mean that the surface of the element is relatively smooth, i.e., the element substantially lacks the raised ribs, fins, and other locking structures commonly used in the prior art to anchor the side flanges to a concrete structure.

[0053] According to one or more embodiments, at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides of the profile is at least partially covered by a functional coating. For example, it may be preferred that the top main surfaces of the first and second sides are at least partially covered by a functional coating, while the bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides are not covered by a functional coating, or vice versa. The sealing element according to these embodiments is particularly suitable as an external water barrier, which is installed on a concrete joint such that only one of the top or bottom main surfaces of the side is bonded to the surface of the concrete structure.

[0054] Preferably, at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides is substantially entirely covered with a functional coating. For example, preferably, at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, and most preferably at least 90% of the total surface area of ​​at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides is covered with a functional coating. Furthermore, preferably, the entire area of ​​the top main surface of the first and second sides, for example, at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, and most preferably at least 90%, is covered with a functional coating, wherein neither of the bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides is covered with a functional coating, or vice versa.

[0055] According to one or more further embodiments, the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides are at least partially covered with a functional coating. Sealing elements according to these embodiments are particularly suitable as internal water-blocking elements installed within concrete joints such that the top or bottom main surfaces of the sides are bonded to the surface of the concrete structure. Again, in this case, it may be preferred that substantially the entire area of ​​the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides is covered with the functional coating. For example, it may be preferred that at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, and most preferably at least 90% of the total surface area of ​​the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides are respectively covered with the functional coating.

[0056] According to one or more embodiments, the central portion of the profile is in the form of a planar element with top and bottom main surfaces. Sealing elements according to these embodiments may be more suitable for sealing building and contraction joints than for sealing expansion joints. In these embodiments, it is preferred that the profile has a uniform thickness along the entire length of the sealing element, i.e., the first and second sides have substantially the same thickness as the central portion. However, it is also possible that the thickness of the central portion differs from the thickness of the sides.

[0057] According to one or more embodiments, the central portion of the profile is in the form of a planar element having top and bottom main surfaces, neither of which is covered with a functional coating. In these embodiments, it may also be preferred that the profile has a uniform thickness along the entire length of the sealing element, i.e., the first and second sides have substantially the same thickness as the central portion. However, it is also possible that the thickness of the central portion differs from the thickness of the sides.

[0058] According to one or more embodiments, the central portion of the profile is in the form of an expansion element. The sealing element according to these embodiments is particularly suitable for sealing expansion joints. There are no particular limitations on the type of expansion element, but it should be able to accommodate the expansion and contraction of the joint caused by lateral and / or transverse movement of the cast concrete portion. The expansion element may be composed of the same or different materials as the first and second sides of the profile.

[0059] Preferably, the expansion element has a greater elastic capacity than the first and second sides. The term "greater elastic capacity" should be understood as meaning that the element exhibits a larger range of elastic deformation, that is, the element can withstand a greater amount of stretching while still being able to return to its original shape.

[0060] According to one or more embodiments, the central portion is in the form of an expansion element, configured to stretch in the lateral and / or transverse directions beyond the normal elastic capacity of the material from which it is made. This type of expansion element can be provided in any suitable form, such as in the form of a hollow profile with a closed or open cross-section, such as an arch, corrugated, or annular cross-section. Compared to planar elements made of the same material, these types of expansion elements allow for a greater range of movement in the transverse, lateral, or shear directions. They also allow for greater movement without overstretching the material.

[0061] According to one or more embodiments, the expansion element is in the form of a hollow profile having a closed cross-section and internal and external main surfaces. These types of expansion elements are commonly referred to as "central bubbles." There are no particular limitations on the type of closed cross-section of the hollow profile. For example, preferably, the hollow profile has a circular, elliptical, hexagonal, pentagonal, square, or triangular cross-section. The expansion element and the internal and external main surfaces of the functional coating can be bonded directly or indirectly to each other. In these embodiments, it may be preferred that at least the internal main surface of the expansion element is not covered by the functional coating.

[0062] Instead of a central bubble, the expansion element can also be provided in the form of a hollow profile with an open cross-section. According to one or more embodiments, the expansion element is in the form of a hollow profile having an open cross-section and top and bottom main surfaces. These types of cross-sections are preferred to, for example, simplify the manufacturing process of the sealing element. There are no particular limitations on the type of open cross-section of the hollow profile. For example, the hollow profile may preferably have a U-shaped, V-shaped, Z-shaped, or W-shaped cross-section, or an annular, bow-shaped, or corrugated cross-section. In these embodiments, it is preferred that at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the expansion element is at least partially covered by a functional coating. The top and bottom main surfaces of the expansion element and the functional coating may be directly or indirectly bonded to each other. According to one or more embodiments, the top and bottom main surfaces of the expansion element are at least partially covered by a functional coating.

[0063] There are no particular limitations on the composition of the profiles used in sealing elements. However, the material of the profiles should be selected to ensure that the sealing element meets the general requirements for sealing expansion, contraction, or water-blocking components used in concrete structures or building joints. For example, it may be preferred to select profile materials that allow the sealing element to meet the requirements defined in the following standards, depending on the application: DIN 18541, BS 903, BS 2571, CRD-C 572-74, ASTM D 412-75, and ASTM D 638.

[0064] Preferably, the profile of the sealing element is composed of a first composition comprising at least one thermoplastic polymer P1.

[0065] Preferably, at least one thermoplastic polymer P1 is present in the first composition in an amount of at least 15 wt%, more preferably at least 25 wt%, and most preferably at least 35 wt%, based on the total weight of the first composition. According to one or more embodiments, at least one thermoplastic polymer P1 is present in the first composition in an amount of at least 50 wt%, preferably at least 60 wt%, more preferably at least 70 wt%, and most preferably at least 85 wt%, based on the total weight of the first composition.

[0066] According to one or more embodiments, at least one thermoplastic polymer P1 is selected from ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), ethylene-acrylate copolymer, ethylene-α-olefin copolymer, ethylene-propylene copolymer, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyamide (PA), chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE), ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM), and polyisobutylene (PIB).

[0067] In addition to at least one thermoplastic polymer P1, the profile may also contain auxiliary components such as UV and heat stabilizers, antioxidants, plasticizers, flame retardants, fillers, dyes, pigments (such as titanium dioxide and carbon black), matting agents, antistatic agents, impact modifiers, biocides, and processing aids such as lubricants, slip agents, anti-sticking agents, and anti-caking agents. Based on the total weight of the first composition, the total amount of auxiliary components is preferably no more than 35% by weight, more preferably no more than 25% by weight, and most preferably no more than 15% by weight.

[0068] The composition of the functional coating is not particularly limited in this invention. In principle, any type of functional coating that can be implemented to bond with a fresh cementitious composition cast thereon and allows for hardening is suitable. Suitable functional coatings for use in this invention are disclosed, for example, in EP 1193283B1, WO 2014 / 029763 A1, WO 2011 / 033122 A1 and WO2017 / 108843A1.

[0069] According to one or more embodiments, the functional coating comprises:

[0070] - First adhesive and contact medium or

[0071] - At least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and at least one solid particulate filler F, wherein the particles of the at least one solid particulate filler F are dispersed throughout the entire volume of the functional coating, or

[0072] - At least one thermoplastic polymer P3, whose consistency is altered under the influence of a highly alkaline medium and a second adhesive.

[0073] According to one or more embodiments, the functional coating comprises a first adhesive and a contact medium. Preferably, the contact medium is bonded to the profile using the first adhesive. The term "adhesive bonding" should be understood as bonding achieved by forming a mechanical connection between substrates. The formation of a mechanical connection can be based on surface adsorption, chemical bonding, diffusion, electrostatic attraction, or mechanical interlocking processes. Thus, for example, a molten thermoplastic component that penetrates into the pores or spaces of the substrate in a molten state and subsequently hardens and thus anchors to or within the substrate is referred to as "adhesive bonding."

[0074] According to one or more embodiments, the first adhesive is a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) or a hot melt adhesive. The term "pressure-sensitive adhesive" is understood to also include pressure-sensitive hot melt adhesive (HM-PSA).

[0075] Suitable pressure-sensitive adhesives include compositions based on acrylic polymers, styrene block copolymers, amorphous polyolefins (APO), amorphous poly-α-olefins (APAO), vinyl ether polymers, bitumen, elastomers such as butyl rubber, ethylene-vinyl acetate, natural rubber, nitrile rubber, silicone rubber, and ethylene-propylene-diene rubber. In addition to the polymers mentioned above, suitable pressure-sensitive adhesive compositions typically contain one or more additional ingredients, including, for example, tackifying resins, waxes, and plasticizers, as well as one or more additives, such as UV absorbers, UV and heat stabilizers, fluorescent whitening agents, pigments, dyes, and drying agents.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the first adhesive is a styrene-based pressure-sensitive adhesive comprising at least one styrene block copolymer or a styrene-based pressure-sensitive hot melt adhesive.

[0077] Suitable styrene block copolymers include SXS-type block copolymers, where S represents a non-elastomeric styrene (or polystyrene) block and X represents an elastomeric α-olefin block, which can be polybutadiene, polyisoprene, polyisoprene-polybutadiene, fully or partially hydrogenated polyisoprene (polyethylene-propylene), or fully or partially hydrogenated polybutadiene (polyethylene-butene). The elastomeric α-olefin block preferably has a glass transition temperature of -55°C to -35°C. The elastomeric α-olefin block can also be a chemically modified α-olefin block. Particularly suitable chemically modified α-olefin blocks include, for example, maleic acid-grafted α-olefin blocks, and particularly maleic acid-grafted ethylene-butene blocks.

[0078] Preferably, at least one styrene block copolymer is selected from SBS, SIS, SIBS, SEBS, and SEPS block copolymers. These can have linear, radical, diblock, triblock, or star structures, with linear structures being preferred. Suitable SXS-type styrene block copolymers include block copolymers based on saturated or unsaturated intermediate blocks X. Hydrogenated styrene block copolymers are also preferred. At least one styrene block copolymer is present in the pressure-sensitive adhesive in an amount of 5-60 wt%, more preferably 10-55 wt%, and most preferably 20-50 wt%, based on the total weight of the adhesive.

[0079] Pressure-sensitive adhesives preferably further comprise at least one tackifying resin. The term "tackifying resin" herein refers to a resin that generally enhances the adhesiveness and / or tackiness of an adhesive composition. The term "tackiness" herein refers to a substance that exhibits tackiness or adhesive properties upon simple contact. Tackiness can be measured, for example, as ring tack. Preferred tackifying resins tackify at a temperature of 25°C.

[0080] Suitable tackifying resins include synthetic resins, natural resins, and chemically modified natural resins. At least one tackifying resin may be present in the pressure-sensitive adhesive in an amount of 5-60 wt%, preferably 10-55 wt%, and most preferably 20-50 wt%, based on the total weight of the adhesive.

[0081] According to one or more further embodiments, the first binder is a pressure-sensitive bitumen binder. Such bitumen binders are well known to those skilled in the art. These are pressure-sensitive binders comprising polymer-modified bitumen and additives, such as processing oils and fillers. Suitable processing oils include, for example, mineral oils, synthetic oils, and paraffin waxes. The term "mineral oil" refers to any hydrocarbon liquid derived from crude petroleum and subjected to one or more refining and / or hydrotreating steps (e.g., fractionation, hydrocracking, dewaxing, isomerization, and hydrorefining) to purify and chemically modify the components to achieve a final set of properties, possessing a lubricating viscosity (i.e., a kinetic viscosity of 1 cSt or higher at 100°C). Based on the relative content of alkanes, cycloalkanes, and aromatic moieties therein, they can be characterized as "alkanes," "cycloalkanes," or "aromatics." This bitumen binder can be prepared by melting bitumen and mixing other components into the molten bitumen material.

[0082] The asphalt component in pressure-sensitive asphalt adhesives is typically modified with one or more polymer components to improve the adhesive's mechanical properties. Typical polymers used in asphalt adhesives include atactic polypropylene (APP), amorphous polyolefins (APO), styrene block copolymers, particularly SIS, SBS, and SEBS, and rubbers, particularly styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), EPDM, polyisoprene, polybutadiene, natural rubber, polychloroprene rubber, ethylene-propylene rubber, ethylene-α-olefins, nitrile rubber, and acrylic rubber. The term "amorphous polyolefin" refers to a polyolefin with a crystallinity of less than 30% as determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) according to ISO 11357. Suitable amorphous polyolefins include, for example, homopolymers of propylene or copolymers of propylene with one or more α-olefin comonomers (e.g., ethylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, 1-octene, and 1-decene).

[0083] According to one or more embodiments, the pressure-sensitive asphalt adhesive comprises 20-90 wt%, preferably 35-85 wt%, of asphalt and 5-30 wt%, preferably 10-25 wt%, of at least one rubber, and 0-40 wt%, preferably 0-35 wt%, of at least one processing oil, preferably at least one mineral oil. The pressure-sensitive asphalt adhesive may further comprise no more than 50 wt%, preferably no more than 40 wt%, of at least one inorganic filler, preferably selected from silica, calcium carbonate, talc, or clay.

[0084] According to one or more embodiments, the first adhesive is a hot melt adhesive. A hot melt adhesive is a solvent-free adhesive that is solid at room temperature and is applied as a melt to the substrate to be bonded. Upon cooling, the adhesive hardens and forms an adhesive bond with the substrate through physical and / or chemical bonding. Suitable hot melt adhesives include, for example, polyolefin-based hot melt adhesives, particularly those based on amorphous polyolefins (APO) and amorphous polyalphaolefins (APAO), and polyurethane-based hot melt adhesives. These types of hot melt adhesives are well known to those skilled in the art. In addition to the main polymer component, they typically contain hydrocarbon resins and / or polyolefin waxes. For example, suitable hot melt adhesives used as first adhesives are disclosed in WO 2011 / 023768 A1, WO 2016 / 139345 A1, and WO 2017 / 174522A1.

[0085] According to one or more embodiments, the first adhesive is a hot melt adhesive having a softening point of 50-190°C, preferably 60-150°C, more preferably 70-120°C, as determined by circumferential measurement according to DIN EN 1238.

[0086] According to one or more embodiments, the contact medium is a layer of fibrous material. The term "fibrous material" herein refers to a material composed of fibers. Suitable fibers for supporting the sheet may comprise or consist of organic, inorganic, or synthetic organic materials or any combination thereof. Suitable organic fibers include, for example, cellulose fibers, cotton fibers, and protein fibers. Suitable synthetic organic fibers include, for example, fibers composed of homopolymers and copolymers of polyester, ethylene, and / or propylene, viscose, nylon, and polyamides. Fiber materials composed of inorganic fibers are also suitable, particularly those composed of mineral fibers, such as glass fibers, aramid fibers, wollastonite fibers, and carbon fibers. Inorganic fibers that have been surface-treated with, for example, silanes may also be used. Fiber materials may include short fibers, long fibers, spun fibers (yarns), or filaments. Furthermore, the fibers may be aligned or stretched. Using combinations of different types of fibers in terms of geometry and composition may also be advantageous.

[0087] Suitable fibrous materials for use as a contact medium include nonwoven fabrics, warp-woven fabrics, and nonwoven scrims.

[0088] The term "nonwoven fabric" as used herein refers to a material composed of fibers bonded together by chemical, mechanical, or thermal bonding methods, and which is neither woven nor knitted. Nonwoven fabrics can be produced, for example, by using carding or needle-punching processes, in which fibers are mechanically entangled to obtain a nonwoven fabric. In chemical bonding, chemical adhesives, such as adhesive materials, are used to hold the fibers together in the nonwoven fabric.

[0089] The term "nonwoven fabric" as used herein refers to a web-like nonwoven product composed of yarns that are stacked and chemically bonded together. Typical materials used for nonwoven fabrics include metals, fiberglass, and plastics such as polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0090] Particularly suitable layers of fibrous materials used as contact media include nonwoven fabric layers composed of synthetic organic or inorganic fibers, wherein the synthetic organic fibers are preferably selected from polyester fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyethylene fibers, nylon fibers and polyamide fibers.

[0091] According to one or more further embodiments, the contact medium comprises or is composed of inorganic particles, which are coated as a discrete layer onto the first adhesive layer. In these embodiments, some portions of the inorganic particles forming the discrete layer may be fully embedded in the first adhesive layer, while most particles are only partially embedded in the first adhesive layer. The inorganic particles partially embedded in the first adhesive layer are also partially exposed and may therefore come into contact with the fresh cementitious composition cast onto the functional coating. This may contribute to the ability of the functional coating to form a permanent bond with the fresh cementitious composition after hardening.

[0092] Suitable inorganic particles for use in contact media particularly include mineral binder particles. The term "mineral binder" herein refers to a binder that reacts in a hydration reaction in the presence of water to form a solid hydrate or hydrate phase. Specifically, the term "mineral binder" herein refers to a non-hydrated mineral binder, i.e., a mineral binder that has not yet reacted in a hydration reaction and / or that is capable of undergoing a hydration reaction in the presence of water. Suitable mineral binders include hydraulic, non-hydraulic, latently hydraulic, and pozzolanic binders.

[0093] The term "hydraulic binder" as used herein refers to a substance that hardens and forms a water-insoluble hydrate due to a chemical reaction ("hydration reaction") with water. Specifically, the hydration reaction of a hydraulic binder occurs substantially independently of its water content. This means that a hydraulic binder can harden and retain its strength even when exposed to water (e.g., underwater or under high humidity conditions). Examples of hydraulic binders include cement, cement clinker, and hydraulic lime. Conversely, "non-hydraulic binders," such as weathered slaked lime (non-hydraulic lime) and gypsum, are at least partially soluble in water and must be kept dry to maintain their strength.

[0094] The term "gypsum" in this document refers to any known form of gypsum, particularly calcium sulfate dehydrate, calcium sulfate α-hemihydrate, calcium sulfate β-hemihydrate, or anhydrous calcium sulfate or mixtures thereof.

[0095] The term "potential hydraulic binder" in this document refers to a special type II concrete additive with potential hydraulic properties according to DIN EN 206-1:2000. These materials are calcium aluminosilicate, which, when mixed with water, does not harden directly or hardens too slowly. The hardening process is accelerated in the presence of an alkaline activator, which breaks the chemical bonds in the amorphous (or glassy) phase of the binder and promotes the dissolution of ionic substances and the formation of the calcium aluminosilicate hydrate phase. Examples of potential hydraulic binders include granular blast furnace slag.

[0096] The term "volcanic ash type binder" in this document specifically refers to Type II concrete additives with volcanic ash properties according to DIN EN 206-1:2000. These materials are siliceous or aluminosilicate compounds that react with water and calcium hydroxide to form calcium silicate hydrate or calcium aluminosilicate hydrate phases. Volcanic ash type binders include natural volcanic ash (e.g., volcanic soil) and artificial volcanic ash (e.g., fly ash and silica fume).

[0097] Inorganic particles are preferably in a finely divided particle form. The term "finely divided particles" refers to particles with a median particle size d. 50 Particles not exceeding 500 μm. The median particle size (d) in the terminology. 50 This refers to all particles smaller than 50 vol% of the particle size, which are smaller than the d. 50 The particle size is specified. Preferably, the total particle size of the inorganic particles (at least 98% of the particles) is less than 250 μm, more preferably less than 200 μm, and even more preferably less than 100 μm.

[0098] According to one or more embodiments, the inorganic particles comprise or consist of cement particles or Portland cement clinker particles.

[0099] Cement can be any conventional cement, such as one of the five main cement types according to DIN EN 197-1: Portland cement (CEM I), Portland composite cement (CEMII), blast furnace cement (CEMIII), pozzolanic cement (CEMIV), and composite cement (CEM V). These main cement types are further subdivided into 27 other cement types based on the amount added, as is known to those skilled in the art and listed in DIN EN 197-1. Naturally, all other cements produced according to another standard also apply, such as those according to ASTM standards or Indian standards. With regard to the cement types mentioned here according to DIN standards, the corresponding cement compositions produced according to another cement standard naturally also apply.

[0100] According to one or more further embodiments, the contact medium is a layer made of an aqueous dispersion of at least one acrylic polymer. The term "acrylic polymer" herein refers to homopolymers, copolymers, and advanced interpolymers of acrylic monomers with one or more other acrylic monomers and / or with one or more other olefinically unsaturated monomers. The term "acrylic monomer" herein refers to (meth)acrylates, (meth)acrylic acid, and their derivatives, such as amides or nitriles of (meth)acrylic acid. Preferred acrylic polymers contain at least 30 wt%, more preferably at least 40 wt%, and most preferably at least 50 wt% of acrylic monomers. The term "aqueous composition" herein refers to a composition in which water is the primary dissolving medium or solvent. Preferably, "aqueous composition" refers to a composition in which water is the sole dissolving medium or solvent.

[0101] Particularly suitable acrylic polymers for aqueous dispersions consist primarily of (meth)acrylates of alcohols containing 1-24 carbon atoms. Preferred acrylic polymers contain at least 25 wt%, more preferably at least 50 wt%, and most preferably at least 75 wt% of these acrylic monomers as polymerization units. Suitable olefinically unsaturated monomers that can be used as comonomers with acrylic monomers include, for example, vinyl esters and allyl esters of carboxylic acids containing 1 to 20 carbon atoms, vinyl ethers of alcohols containing 1 to 8 carbon atoms, vinyl aromatic compounds, especially styrene, vinyl halides, non-aromatic hydrocarbons containing 2-8 carbon atoms and at least one olefinic double bond, α- and β-unsaturated mono- or dicarboxylic acids containing 3-6 carbon atoms, and their derivatives (especially amides, esters, and salts).

[0102] Preferably, at least one acrylic polymer has a glass transition temperature (T0) of -40 to 5°C, more preferably -40 to 0°C. g Suitable aqueous dispersions of acrylic polymers are commercially available, for example from BASF. A200 A323

[0103] A378 380 5036 5041 6767、 S 410, S 559, 5047 V275 V278; obtained from an app, for example EAF 60 and EAF 67; obtained from Clariant, for example DM 1340; obtained from Rohm and Haas, for example CA 162 and CA 172.

[0104] Aqueous polymer dispersions may contain two or more acrylic polymers with different glass transition temperatures and different monomer compositions. Aqueous polymer dispersions containing two or more different acrylic polymers can be prepared by mixing commercially available acrylic polymer dispersions such as those described above.

[0105] The layer prepared from an aqueous dispersion of at least one acrylic polymer may further contain additives, such as inorganic fillers, ultraviolet and heat stabilizers, ultraviolet absorbers, antioxidants, surfactants, dyes, pigments such as titanium dioxide and carbon black, antistatic agents, impact modifiers, biocides, defoamers, wetting agents, coalescing agents, and processing aids, such as lubricants, slip agents, anti-sticking agents, and anti-caking agents.

[0106] According to one or more further embodiments, the functional coating comprises a second composition containing at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and at least one solid particulate filler F, wherein the particles of the at least one solid particulate filler F are dispersed throughout the entire volume of the functional coating. The term "dispersed throughout the entire volume" should be understood to mean that substantially all portions of the functional coating contain particles of the solid particulate filler F, but this does not necessarily mean that the distribution of particles throughout the functional coating is completely uniform.

[0107] In embodiments where the functional coating comprises the second composition, the functional coating and profile of the sealing element can be bonded directly or indirectly to each other on their opposing surfaces. Specifically, the functional coating can be directly or indirectly bonded to at least a portion of the top and / or bottom main surfaces of the side portion and / or the top and / or bottom main surfaces or inner and outer main surfaces of the central portion, if applicable. The functional coating and profile of the sealing element can be directly bonded to each other, for example by thermal bonding, or indirectly bonded, for example by a bonding layer, such as an adhesive layer or a thermoplastic material layer or a combination thereof.

[0108] According to one or more embodiments, the functional coating comprises a second composition containing at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and at least one solid particulate filler F, wherein the particles of the at least one solid particulate filler F are dispersed throughout the entire volume of the functional coating and wherein the functional coating and the profile of the sealing element are directly connected to each other on their opposite surfaces.

[0109] According to one or more embodiments, the functional coating comprises a second composition containing at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and at least one solid particulate filler F, wherein the particles of the at least one solid particulate filler F are dispersed throughout the entire volume of the functional coating and wherein the functional coating and the profile of the sealing element are indirectly connected on their opposing surfaces by a layer of adhesive or a layer of thermoplastic material. Preferably, the thermoplastic material layer comprises at least one thermoplastic polymer P, which is miscible with at least one thermoplastic polymer P1 contained in the profile of the sealing element. More preferably, at least one thermoplastic polymer P is weldable to at least one thermoplastic polymer P1. The polymers being "weldable" as described herein means that a thermoplastic layer composed of at least one thermoplastic polymer P can be uniformly bonded to another thermoplastic layer composed of at least one thermoplastic polymer P1 by thermal welding.

[0110] Preferably, the second composition is a heterogeneous mixture of at least two discrete phases, particularly a heterogeneous mixture of a continuous thermoplastic polymer phase and a discontinuous solid filler phase. The continuous thermoplastic polymer phase comprises at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and optionally one or more other polymeric materials and / or additives, which can be thoroughly mixed with or dispersed among the thermoplastic polymers to substantially constitute a single “thermoplastic polymer phase.” This thermoplastic polymer phase is characterized by its ability to typically form a melt by heating to above a specified temperature and then re-harden upon sufficient cooling. Due to the presence of the thermoplastic phase, functional coatings according to these embodiments can be bonded to other thermoplastic layers by thermal welding, provided that the thermoplastic polymers in the two layers are compatible with each other.

[0111] The discontinuous solid filler phase comprises at least one solid particulate filler F, which may exist in the second composition as individual particles or aggregates of one or more particles. These are at least partially, preferably completely, surrounded by a continuous thermoplastic phase. If the second composition comprises one or more mineral binders, such as cement, it is important that these do not form an interconnected solid network of hydrated mineral binders. Preferably, the functional coating is substantially free of, and more preferably completely free of, an interconnected solid network of hydrated mineral binders. The particles of at least one solid particulate filler F generally do not undergo a phase transformation to form a melt. Instead, the particles will remain as discrete, discontinuous solid phases, dispersed throughout the continuous thermoplastic phase.

[0112] Preferably, the functional coating consists of a homogeneous mixture of the second composition. In this document, "homogeneous mixture" refers to a composition in which the individual components are substantially uniformly distributed within the composition. Therefore, a homogeneous mixture of the second composition comprising at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and at least one solid particulate filler F refers to a composition in which the particles of the solid filler component F are uniformly / uniformly distributed within a continuous phase composed of the thermoplastic polymer component P2. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that regions may form within such a homogeneous mixture where the concentration of one component is slightly higher than in other regions, and 100% uniform distribution of all components is generally not achievable. However, according to the invention, such a mixed composition with an "imperfect" distribution of components is also specifically included in the term "homogeneous mixture."

[0113] At least one solid particulate filler F is preferably an inorganic filler, more preferably an inorganic filler selected from mineral binders and inert mineral fillers.

[0114] The term "inert mineral filler" in this document refers to mineral fillers that, unlike mineral binders, are non-reactive, meaning they do not undergo hydration reactions in the presence of water. Suitable inert mineral fillers include sand, granite, calcium carbonate, clay, expanded clay, diatomaceous earth, pumice, mica, kaolin, talc, dolomite, calcium silicate, perlite, vermiculite, wollastonite, barite, magnesium carbonate, calcium hydroxide, calcium aluminate, silica, fumed silica, fused silica, aerogel, glass beads, hollow glass spheres, ceramic spheres, bauxite, crushed concrete, and zeolite.

[0115] The term “sand” in this document refers to mineral clastic sediments (clastic rocks), which are loose clumps of small, round or angular grains (loose sediments) that have separated from their original granular structure and been transported to their deposition sites during mechanical and chemical degradation, said sediments having a SiO2 content of greater than 50 wt%, particularly greater than 75 wt%, and especially preferably greater than 85 wt%.

[0116] In this paper, calcium carbonate as an inert mineral filler is understood to be a calcareous filler produced by grinding and / or precipitation from chalk, limestone or marble.

[0117] There are no particular limitations on the amount of at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and at least one solid particulate filler F in the second composition. However, using a large amount of solid particulate filler generally leads to an increase in the stiffness of the functional coating, which may be undesirable. Therefore, it is preferable that the content of at least one solid particulate filler F in the second composition does not exceed 90 wt%, more preferably not more than 80 wt%, even more preferably not more than 75 wt%, and most preferably not more than 65 wt%, based on the total weight of the second composition.

[0118] According to one or more embodiments, the second composition comprises:

[0119] a) 10-90 wt%, preferably 25-75 wt%, more preferably 35-65 wt% of at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and

[0120] b) 10-90 wt%, preferably 25-75 wt%, more preferably 35-65 wt%, of at least one solid particulate filler F, the proportion being based on the total weight of the second composition.

[0121] At least one solid particulate filler F is preferably in the form of finely granulated particles. According to one or more embodiments, the median particle size d of at least one solid particulate filler F... 50 The particle size is 1.0-300.0 μm, more preferably 1.5-250.0 μm, even more preferably 2.0-200.0 μm, and most preferably 2.0-100.0 μm. Preferably, less than 40 wt%, more preferably less than 30 wt%, even more preferably less than 20 wt%, and most preferably less than 10 wt% of at least one solid particulate filler F has a particle size of less than 2.5 μm and / or less than 40 wt%, more preferably less than 30 wt%, even more preferably less than 20 wt%, and most preferably less than 10 wt% of at least one solid particulate filler F has a particle size of greater than 100 μm.

[0122] According to one or more embodiments, the overall particle size (at least 98% of the particles) of the solid particulate filler F is less than 250 μm, more preferably less than 200 μm, and even more preferably less than 100 μm.

[0123] According to one or more embodiments, the second composition comprises 10-90 wt%, preferably 25-75 wt%, more preferably 30-70 wt%, and most preferably 35-65 wt% of at least one mineral binder, wherein the mineral binder is selected from hydraulic binders, non-hydraulic binders, potential hydraulic binders, and pozzolanic binders based on the total weight of the second composition.

[0124] If the at least one solid particulate filler F contained in the second composition comprises or is composed of one or more mineral binders, it is preferable that these mineral binders remain substantially dehydrated at least until the functional coating comes into contact with the aqueous composition, such as with fresh cementitious composition. If the functional coating contains hydrated mineral binders, for example, if the at least one solid particulate filler F contains pulverized concrete, it may also be preferable that they do not form an interconnected solid network of hydrated mineral binders. The presence of such a solid network of hydrated mineral binders in the functional coating can significantly reduce the flexibility of the sealing element, which may be desirable. It has also been found that even after the sealing element has been stored at normal room temperature and 50% relative humidity for several weeks, the mineral binders contained in the functional coating generally remain substantially dehydrated.

[0125] According to one or more embodiments, the second composition comprises 10-90 wt%, preferably 25-75 wt%, more preferably 30-70 wt%, and most preferably 35-65 wt% of at least one inert mineral filler based on the total weight of the second composition, said inert mineral filler being selected from sand, granite, calcium carbonate, clay, expanded clay, diatomaceous earth, pumice, mica, kaolin, talc, dolomite, calcium silicate, perlite, vermiculite, wollastonite, barite, magnesium carbonate, calcium hydroxide, calcium aluminate, silica, fumed silica, fused silica, aerogel, glass beads, hollow glass spheres, ceramic spheres, bauxite, crushed concrete, and zeolite.

[0126] According to one or more embodiments, the second composition contains 10-90 wt%, preferably 25-75 wt%, more preferably 30-70 wt%, and most preferably 35-65 wt% of cement or Portland cement clinker, based on the total weight of the second composition.

[0127] According to one or more embodiments, the second composition comprises 1-60 wt%, preferably 2.5-55 wt%, more preferably 5-50 wt%, and most preferably 10-40 wt% of at least one inert mineral filler selected from sand, granite, calcium carbonate, clay, expanded clay, diatomaceous earth, pumice, mica, kaolin, talc, dolomite, calcium silicate, perlite, vermiculite, wollastonite, barite, magnesium carbonate, calcium hydroxide, calcium aluminate, silica, fumed silica, fused silica, aerogel, glass beads, hollow glass spheres, ceramic spheres, bauxite, crushed concrete, and zeolite, and 1-60 wt%, preferably 2.5-55 wt%, more preferably 5-50 wt%, and most preferably 10-40 wt% of at least one mineral binder selected from hydraulic binders, non-hydraulic binders, potential hydraulic binders, and pozzolanic binders, preferably cement or Portland cement clinker, all proportions being based on the total weight of the second composition.

[0128] In embodiments where the functional coating comprises a second composition, it is preferred that at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 is miscible with at least one thermoplastic polymer P1 contained in the profile of the sealing element. More preferably, at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and at least one thermoplastic polymer P1 are weldable. The term "weldable" to mean that the thermoplastic layer composed of at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 can be uniformly bonded to another thermoplastic layer composed of at least one thermoplastic polymer P1 by thermal welding.

[0129] Suitable thermoplastic polymer P2 can, for example, have a melting point (T0) in the range of 25-250°C, preferably 55-225°C, more preferably 60-200°C, and most preferably 65-150°C. m The glass transition temperature (T) of at least one thermoplastic polymer P2. g Preferably, the temperature is lower than the temperature during the use of the sealing element. Therefore, it can be advantageous to have a T value of at least one thermoplastic polymer P2. g Below 0°C, more preferably below -15°C, and most preferably below -30°C.

[0130] At least one thermoplastic polymer P2 is preferably selected from ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), ethylene-acrylate copolymer, ethylene-α-olefin copolymer, ethylene-propylene copolymer, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyamide (PA), chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE), ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM), and polyisobutylene (PIB). Furthermore, it is preferable that at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 is selected from low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), ethylene-acrylate copolymer, ethylene-α-olefin copolymer, and ethylene-propylene copolymer.

[0131] Preferably, the second composition further comprises at least one surfactant. The term "surfactant" herein refers to a substance that reduces surface tension, typically an organic compound containing both hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups. Surfactants are classified as anionic, cationic, amphoteric, and nonionic surfactants based on the charge of their hydrophilic groups. It is believed that the presence of a surfactant in the functional coating reduces the surface tension of the water contained in the fresh cementitious composition, which further enhances the ability of the fresh cementitious composition to wet the surface of the functional coating and, upon hardening, to form an interlocking mechanical bond between the sealing element and the cementitious composition.

[0132] According to one or more embodiments, the second composition further comprises at least one surfactant selected from anionic, cationic, amphoteric, nonionic, and polymeric surfactants.

[0133] Examples of suitable anionic surfactants include surfactants containing carboxyl, sulfate, phosphate, or sulfonate groups (e.g., amino acid derivatives); fatty alcohol ether sulfates; fatty alcohol sulfates; soaps; alkylphenol ethoxylates; fatty alcohol ethoxylates; alkane sulfonates; olefin sulfonates; and alkyl phosphates.

[0134] Examples of suitable cationic surfactants include quaternary ammonium or phosphonium compounds, such as tetraalkylammonium salts; N,N-dialkylimidazoline compounds; dimethyldistearate ammonium compounds, N-alkylpyridine compounds; and ammonium chloride.

[0135] Amphoteric (amphoionic) surfactants have both cationic and anionic centers attached to the same molecule. Examples of suitable amphoteric surfactants include amphoteric electrolytes such as aminocarboxylic acids and betaine.

[0136] Examples of suitable nonionic surfactants include ethoxylated compounds, such as ethoxylated adducts of alcohols, such as polyoxyalkylene polyols; amines; fatty acids; fatty acid amides; alkylphenols; glycolamides; fatty amines; polysiloxanes; fatty acid esters; alkyl or alkylphenyl polyethylene glycol ethers, such as fatty alcohol polyethylene glycol ethers; alkyl glycosides; sugar esters; sorbitol esters; polysorbates or trialkylamine oxides; esters and amides of poly(meth)acrylic acid with polyalkylene glycols or aminopolyalkylene glycols, which may have an alkyl group fixed at one end at most.

[0137] Polymer surfactants can be classified into two groups of compounds. The first group includes comb-like or rake-like polymers, wherein the organic polymer chains have hydrophobic groups arranged at regular intervals along the chain and hydrophilic groups arranged at random or regular intervals along the chain. The second group of polymer surfactants includes block copolymers in which there are blocks of hydrophobic groups (B) and blocks of hydrophilic groups (A), typically in an ABA configuration. Some polymer surfactants, such as ethylene oxide-propylene oxide copolymer surfactants, can also be classified as nonionic surfactants.

[0138] Preferably, based on the total weight of the second composition, at least one surfactant (if used) is present in the second composition in an amount of at least 0.05 wt%. It may also be preferred that, based on the total weight of the second composition, at least one surfactant (if used) is present in the second composition in an amount of 0.05-5.0 wt%, more preferably 0.1-4.0 wt%, even more preferably 0.1-3.0 wt%, and most preferably 0.25-2.0 wt%.

[0139] Preferably, at least one surfactant is selected from glyceryl monostearate, polycarboxylate ether, polyether-modified polysiloxane, polyoxyethylene siloxane, hydroxyethylamine, erucamide, stearyl stearamide, alkali metal alkane sulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate.

[0140] Suitable commercially available glyceryl monostearates include Dimodan HP (from Danisco).

[0141] Examples of suitable polycarboxylate ethers include polycarboxylate ether-based superplasticizers (PCEs) composed of a methoxy-polyethylene glycol copolymer (side chain) grafted with a methacrylic acid copolymer (main chain). Suitable commercially available polycarboxylate ether-based superplasticizers include... Polymer PC-2 Polymer RMC-2 and

[0142] R-750MC (from Sika).

[0143] Examples of suitable polyether-modified polysiloxanes include polyether-polysiloxane copolymers. Suitable commercially available polyether-modified polysiloxanes include Tegos tab B8870 (from Evonik).

[0144] Suitable examples of commercially available polyoxyethylene siloxanes include Niax L-1500 (from Momentive).

[0145] Suitable examples of hydroxyethylamines include bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amine, which is commercially available as Armos tat 300 (from Akzo Nobel).

[0146] Suitable examples of commercially available erucamide and stearyl stearamide include Kemamide E180 and Kemamide S180 (from PMC Biogenix).

[0147] Examples of suitable alkali metal alkane sulfonates include sodium alkane sulfonate, which is commercially available as Armos tat3002 (from Akzo Nobel) and Loxiol 93P (from Emery Oleochemicals).

[0148] Suitable examples of commercially available alkyl aryl sulfonates include ZetaSphere 2300, 3100 and 3700 (from Airproducts).

[0149] According to one or more embodiments, the second composition comprises at least one surfactant selected from glyceryl monostearate, polycarboxylate ether, polyether-modified polysiloxane, polyoxyethylene siloxane, hydroxyethylamine, erucamide, stearyl stearamide, alkali metal alkane sulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate, wherein the at least one surfactant is present in the second composition in an amount of 0.05-5.0 wt%, preferably 0.1-4.0 wt%, more preferably 0.1-3.0 wt%, and most preferably 0.25-2.0 wt%, based on the total weight of the second composition.

[0150] In addition to at least one thermoplastic polymer P2, the second composition may contain at least one solid particulate filler F and at least one surfactant, additives such as UV and heat stabilizers, antioxidants, plasticizers, flame retardants, dyes, pigments such as titanium dioxide and carbon black, matting agents, antistatic agents, impact modifiers, biocides, and processing aids such as lubricants, slip agents, anti-sticking agents, and anti-caking agents.

[0151] According to one or more further embodiments, the functional coating comprises a second binder and at least one thermoplastic polymer P3, which changes its consistency under the action of a strongly alkaline medium. According to one or more embodiments, the second binder is a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). Suitable pressure-sensitive adhesives used as the second binder include those discussed above suitable for use as the first binder.

[0152] Highly alkaline media should be understood to have a pH value of 9 to 14, preferably 11 to 13. Functional coatings containing at least one thermoplastic polymer P3 are preferably inert to aqueous solutions (e.g., rainwater) with pH values ​​in the acidic to slightly alkaline range. When the functional coating comes into contact with a highly alkaline solution, such as a fresh cementitious composition, a chemical reaction occurs, resulting in, for example, the dissolution of at least one thermoplastic polymer P3 in the highly alkaline solution.

[0153] Thermoplastic polymers whose consistency is altered under the influence of highly alkaline media are well known to those skilled in the art. One example of such polymer is polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), which partially dissolves under the influence of aqueous media. This PVA can be used, for example, to produce "soluble bags" for packaging concrete additives, as these "soluble bags" can be added directly to concrete mixtures. Another example of polymers whose consistency is altered under highly alkaline conditions is copolyesters, because the ester functional groups in these polymers hydrolyze in highly alkaline media, leading to polymer decomposition. Yet another example of polymers whose consistency is altered under the influence of highly alkaline media is polyvinyl acetate and its copolymers, because the vinyl acetate units in the polymer undergo hydrolysis in highly alkaline media and are thereby converted into PVA. These are readily soluble in water, allowing the polymer to dissolve completely in highly alkaline media.

[0154] Particularly suitable polyvinyl alcohols include those with a degree of hydrolysis greater than 50 mol%, preferably 70-100 mol%, more preferably 80-97.5 mol%, and most preferably 85-95 mol%. These types of polyvinyl alcohols are described, for example, in DE 102007 026 166 A1. As used herein, the term "degree of hydrolysis" refers to the proportion of acetate groups in polyvinyl acetate that have been converted into alcohol groups to form polyvinyl alcohol.

[0155] Suitable vinyl acetate copolymers include those containing relatively small amounts of nonpolar monomers, such as ethylene monomers. Vinyl acetate copolymers containing large amounts of nonpolar monomers are unsuitable because they alter their consistency under strongly alkaline conditions. Therefore, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers with a vinyl acetate concentration range of 5-40 mol% are unsuitable for use as at least one thermoplastic polymer P3. Suitable vinyl acetate copolymers include those containing no more than 50 mol%, preferably no more than 30 mol%, and more preferably no more than 20 mol% of nonpolar monomers based on the total amount of all monomers in the copolymer.

[0156] Other suitable thermoplastic polymers for altering consistency under highly alkaline conditions include thermoplastic copolyesters, particularly those based on polyethylene terephthalate (PET). These copolymers, compared to polyvinyl acetate or vinyl acetate copolymers, have the advantage of hydrolysis occurring along the polymer backbone, whereas in the case of polyvinyl acetate, only the side chains can be hydrolyzed. Thermoplastic copolyesters are also preferred because significant changes in polymer consistency can be achieved with relatively low amounts of hydrolysis, whereas in the case of polyvinyl acetate, essentially complete hydrolysis of the acetate groups is required to significantly alter the polymer's consistency.

[0157] Preferably, at least one thermoplastic polymer P3 has a relatively low melting point (T). m For example, a melting point of 60-120°C, more preferably 70-110°C, and most preferably 75-100°C.

[0158] Preferably, at least one thermoplastic polymer P3 is selected from copolymers of polyvinyl alcohol, thermoplastic copolyester and vinyl acetate.

[0159] In embodiments where the functional coating comprises a second binder and at least one thermoplastic polymer P3, the functional coating may further comprise an additional thermoplastic polymer that does not alter its consistency in highly alkaline media. Advantageously, said additional polymer has a melting point (T0) above normal room temperature. m Suitable additional thermoplastic polymers for use in combination with at least one thermoplastic polymer P3 include, for example, acrylic polymers, polyethylene homopolymers, and ethylene copolymers, particularly ethylene-α-olefin copolymers and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers.

[0160] According to one or more embodiments, the functional coating consists of a single layer comprising at least one thermoplastic polymer P3 and a second adhesive.

[0161] According to one or more further embodiments, the functional coating comprises a second adhesive layer and a protective film containing at least one thermoplastic polymer P3, wherein the protective film is coated on and at least partially covers the outer surface of the second adhesive layer opposite to the profile side of the sealing element. In these embodiments, the layer of the second adhesive is disposed between the protective film and the profile of the sealing element.

[0162] Unless otherwise stated, the preferred selection of at least one thermoplastic polymer P, P1, P2 and P3, at least one solid particulate filler F and at least one surfactant described above also applies to all aspects of the invention.

[0163] The preferred thickness of the functional coating depends on the implementation of the sealing element and, in particular, the type of application. The functional coating may have a uniform thickness, or the thickness may vary in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions of the sealing element. Depending on the implementation of the sealing element, the functional coating may be in the form of a continuous layer or a discontinuous layer of material. The term "continuous layer" herein refers to a layer consisting of a single area coated with the material, while a "discontinuous layer" is considered to consist of several separate areas coated with the material.

[0164] Preferably, the maximum thickness of the functional coating, determined using the measurement method defined in DIN EN 1849-2, is 0.1-10.0 mm, more preferably 0.2-5.0 mm, even more preferably 0.25-2.5 mm, and most preferably 0.3-2.0 mm. It is also preferable that the minimum thickness of the functional coating, determined using the measurement method defined in DIN EN 1849-2, is 0.05-2.0 mm, more preferably 0.05-1.5 mm, even more preferably 0.05-1.0 mm, and most preferably 0.05-0.5 mm. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the functional coating has an average thickness of 0.075-2.5 mm, preferably 0.1-1.5 mm, even more preferably 0.1-1.0 mm, and most preferably 0.1-0.5 mm, calculated as the arithmetic mean of the maximum and minimum thicknesses, which is determined using the measurement method defined in DIN EN 1849-2.

[0165] The preferred dimensions of the sealing element profile, such as thickness and width, depend primarily on the expected hydrostatic head and the size of the joint opening where the sealing element will be installed in the concrete joint. Preferably, for example, the total width of the sealing element profile is in the range of 50-1500 mm, more preferably 100-1000 mm. The width of the sealing element profile should be understood as referring to the dimension of the sealing element, measured in the width direction of the joint opening to be sealed.

[0166] The preferred dimensions of the center portion of the profile depend primarily on the implementation scheme of the center portion and the dimensions of the joint opening. For example, the preferred width of the center portion is 2.5-150 mm, more preferably 5-100 mm, and most preferably 5-75 mm. The width of the center portion should be understood as referring to the dimension of the center portion, which is measured in the width direction of the joint opening to be sealed.

[0167] The preferred dimensions of the first and second sides of the profile depend primarily on the type of application and the size of the joint opening. For example, it is preferable that the width of each side is in the range of 25-750 mm, more preferably 100-500 mm, and most preferably 150-500 mm. The width of the side should be understood to refer to the dimension of each side, which is measured in the width direction of the joint opening to be sealed.

[0168] The thickness of the profile can vary in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions of the sealing element. Preferably, the maximum thickness of the sealing element profile, determined using the measurement methods defined in DIN EN 1849-2, is 1.0-25 mm, more preferably 2.5-15 mm. The term "profile thickness" herein refers to the thickness of the side and center portions of the profile, excluding the thickness of any functional coatings or other layers that may be present. If the center portion of the profile is in the form of an expansion element, such as a hollow profile, then "profile thickness" refers to the thickness of the side portions without that center portion. Also preferably, the minimum thickness of the profile, determined using the measurement methods defined in DIN EN 1849-2, is 0.25-20.0 mm, more preferably 0.5-15.0 mm.

[0169] The thickness of the side portion of the profile may be greater than the thickness of the central portion, or vice versa. The thickness of the side portion of the profile may also increase or decrease along the width of the side portion. According to one or more embodiments, the first and / or second side portion of the profile has a wedge-shaped cross-section, i.e., the thickness of the cross-section of the side portion varies along the width direction of the side portion. According to one or more embodiments, the thickness of the cross-section of the first and second side portions increases from the central portion towards the tip of the side portion.

[0170] The sealing element may further include a reinforcing layer to improve the dimensional stability of the sealing element. Preferably, the reinforcing layer is at least partially embedded in the functional coating and / or profile. Suitable reinforcing layers include, for example, layers of fibrous material. However, if the central portion is in the form of an expansion element, it may be preferable that the sealing device does not contain a reinforcing layer, or if a reinforcing layer is used, it is not present in the central portion of the profile or in the functional coating covering the surface of the central portion.

[0171] Another subject of the present invention is a method for preparing a sealing element according to the invention, the method comprising the steps of: extruding and / or calendering a first thermoplastic composition comprising the components of a profile containing the sealing element, and applying one or more functional coatings on at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the profile, preferably on at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and / or second sides of the profile.

[0172] The details of the method for preparing the sealing element according to the invention depend on the implementation of the sealing element, particularly the composition of the functional coating and whether it is directly or indirectly attached to the profile of the sealing element.

[0173] According to one or more embodiments, the functional coating comprises at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and at least one solid particulate filler F, and the method comprises the steps of: extruding and / or calendering and / or co-extruding a first thermoplastic composition comprising profile components and a second thermoplastic composition comprising functional coating components.

[0174] In the case of an extrusion process, the method may include the following steps: extruding a first thermoplastic composition using a first extruder, and extruding a second thermoplastic composition using a second extruder, and bonding the resulting layers together using any conventional method (e.g., calendering rolls or laminating rolls) to form a composite article. This type of extrusion process may be particularly suitable for manufacturing sealing elements comprising a central portion in the form of a planar element or a central portion in the form of an expanded element.

[0175] In the case of a co-extrusion process, the method may include the following steps: co-extruding a first and second thermoplastic composition through a common die to form a composite article, and optionally using spaced-apart calender cooling rollers to stretch the composite article through which the layers are bonded to each other and / or controlling the thickness of the extruded layers, particularly the thickness of the functional coating. This type of co-extrusion process may be particularly suitable for producing sealing elements comprising a central portion in the form of a planar element or a central portion in the form of a hollow profile with an open cross-section. In the latter case, the co-extruded composite article may be subjected to post-processing steps in which an expansion element is formed during folding.

[0176] According to one or more embodiments, a method for manufacturing a sealing element includes the steps of: manufacturing first and second composite articles having the same composition using the method described above; and bonding the composite articles together such that, in the resulting sealing element, both the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides of the profile are coated with a functional coating, i.e., the profiles of the first and second composite articles are joined together to form a single sealing element. Sealing elements produced using the method according to these embodiments are particularly suitable for use as internal water-blocking components. If a sealing element having a central portion in the form of an expansion element is to be produced by the method described above, the first and second composite articles can first undergo a thermoforming step, wherein the central portion of the composite article is shaped to form the "other half" of the expansion element (center bubble), and then the first and second composite articles are bonded to the other half.

[0177] According to one or more further embodiments, a method for manufacturing a sealing element includes the following steps: manufacturing first and second composite articles using the method described above; extruding a third thermoplastic composition comprising the components of the central portion of the profile, preferably in the form of a hollow profile having a closed cross-section; and bonding the first and second composite elements to the central portion, such that in the sealing element thus obtained, the first and second composite articles extend outward from the central portion and extend on opposite sides of the central portion. The bonding of the composite articles to the central portion of the profile can be achieved using any conventional means, such as by thermal welding.

[0178] According to one or more further embodiments, a method for manufacturing a sealing element comprises the steps of: extruding and / or calendering a first thermoplastic composition containing profile components; providing one or more composite articles consisting of a functional coating and a bonding layer; and bonding the composite article to the surface of the extruded profile via the bonding layer. The bonding layer may be an adhesive layer or a thermoplastic material layer or a combination thereof.

[0179] Another subject of the invention is a method for sealing a joint between two parts of concrete using an internal water-blocking element, the method comprising the steps of: providing a sealing element according to the invention, and sequentially casting first and second parts of concrete such that:

[0180] - The first side of the profile is embedded in the first part of the concrete.

[0181] - The second side of the profile is embedded in the second part of the concrete, and

[0182] - The central part is located at the joint formed between two concrete sections.

[0183] The first and second parts of concrete can form part of any structure or civil engineering structure that is to be sealed to prevent moisture and water damage, such as above-ground or underground structures, such as buildings, garages, tunnels, landfills, water retention ponds, or dikes.

[0184] The details of the method depend on the type of joint to be sealed, specifically whether the joint to be sealed is an expansion joint, a contraction joint, or a construction joint. According to one or more embodiments, a method for sealing a joint between two parts of concrete includes the following steps:

[0185] i) Place the sealing element of the present invention such that the center portion of the profile is located between the upper and lower portions of the separation template.

[0186] ii) Optionally, the first side of the profile is secured to one or more reinforcing bars.

[0187] iii) Pour the first portion of concrete so that the first side of the profile is embedded in the concrete; iv) Pour the second portion of concrete so that the second side of the profile is embedded in the concrete.

[0188] Another subject of the present invention is a method for sealing a joint between two parts of concrete using an external water-blocking element, the method comprising the following steps:

[0189] i') Place the sealing element according to the invention on the substrate to be poured with concrete.

[0190] ii') Cast the first and second portions of concrete such that the center portion of the profile is located in or along the joint formed between the cast portions of concrete, and directly attach the functional coating of the first side of the profile to the surface of the first portion of concrete, and directly attach the functional coating of the second side of the profile to the surface of the second portion of concrete.

[0191] Another subject of the invention is a sealed structure comprising two concrete portions, a gap between the concrete portions, and a sealing element according to the invention located at the joint, wherein a first side of a profile is bonded to the first concrete portion, a central portion of the profile is located in or along the gap, and a second side of the profile is bonded to the second concrete portion.

[0192] According to one or more embodiments, a first side of the profile is embedded in a first portion of concrete and a second side of the profile is embedded in a second portion of concrete, wherein the central portion of the profile is located in a gap.

[0193] Another subject of the invention is the use of the sealing element according to the invention for sealing joints in concrete structures.

[0194] According to one or more embodiments, the sealing element according to the invention is used as an external water barrier for sealing joints in a concrete structure, wherein at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides is at least partially covered with a functional coating.

[0195] According to one or more embodiments, the sealing element according to the invention is used as an internal water-blocking element for sealing joints in a concrete structure, wherein the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides are at least partially covered with a functional coating.

[0196] According to one or more embodiments, the sealing element according to the invention is used to seal joints in concrete structures, wherein the central portion of the profile is in the form of a planar element having a top and a bottom main surface, neither of which is covered with a functional coating.

[0197] According to one or more embodiments, the sealing element according to the invention is used to seal expansion joints in concrete structures, wherein the central portion of the profile is in the form of an expansion element, preferably an expansion element, which is constructed such that it can stretch in the lateral direction beyond the normal elastic capacity of the material to which it is made.

[0198] Detailed description of the attached figures

[0199] Figure 1 A cross-section of a sealing element (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0200] In this embodiment, the sealing element (1) comprises a profile (2) having a central portion (3) and first and second side portions (4,5) extending outward from the central portion (3) and on opposite sides of the central portion (3), wherein the ends of the side portions (4,5) are bubble-like protrusions. The central portion (3) of the profile (2) is in the form of a planar element, and the top main surfaces of the side portions (4,5) and the top main surface of the central portion (3) are substantially completely covered by a functional coating (6). These types of sealing elements are particularly suitable for use as external water barriers.

[0201] Figure 2 A cross-section of a sealing element according to an embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the sides (4,5) and the center portion (3) of the profile (2) are in the form of planar elements having top and bottom main surfaces. The top main surface of the sides (4,5) is substantially completely covered by a functional coating (6), while the top and bottom main surfaces of the center portion (3) are not covered by the functional coating (6). These types of sealing elements are particularly suitable for use as external water barriers.

[0202] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 2The cross-section of a sealing element in another embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the top and bottom main surfaces of the sides (4,5) are substantially completely covered with the functional coating (6), while the top and bottom main surfaces of the center portion (3) are not covered with the functional coating (6). These types of sealing elements are particularly suitable for use as internal water barriers.

[0203] Figure 4 A cross-section of a sealing element according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the sealing element (1) comprises a profile (2) having a central portion (3) and first and second side portions (4,5) extending outward from the central portion (3) and on opposite sides of the central portion (3), wherein the side portions (4,5) are in the form of planar elements having top and bottom main surfaces. The top main surfaces of the first and second side portions (4,5) are substantially completely covered by a functional coating (6), and the central portion (3) is in the form of an expansion element having inner and outer main surfaces, wherein the expansion element is constructed such that it can stretch in the lateral direction beyond the normal elastic capacity of the material to which it is made. Furthermore, the expansion element is in the form of a hollow profile having a circular (closed) cross-section. These types of sealing elements are particularly suitable for use as external water barriers, especially for sealing expansion joints.

[0204] Figure 5 Shown according to Figure 4 The cross-section of a further embodiment of the sealing element is shown. In this embodiment, the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides (4, 5) are both substantially completely covered with a functional coating (6). The central portion (3) is in the form of an expansion element with inner and outer main surfaces, neither of which is covered with a functional coating. The expansion element is in the form of a hollow profile with a hexagonal (closed) cross-section. These types of sealing elements are particularly suitable for use as internal water barriers, especially for sealing expansion joints.

[0205] Figure 6A cross-section of a sealing element according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the sealing element (1) comprises a profile (2) having a central portion (3) and first and second side portions (4,5) extending outward from the central portion (3) and on opposite sides of the central portion (3), wherein the side portions (4,5) are in the form of planar elements having top and bottom main surfaces. The top main surfaces of the first and second side portions (4,5) are substantially completely covered by a functional coating (6), and the central portion (3) is in the form of an expansion element having top and bottom main surfaces, wherein the expansion element is configured to extend in the lateral direction beyond the normal elastic capacity of the material from which it is made. Furthermore, the expansion element is in the form of a hollow profile having a V-shaped (open) cross-section. These types of sealing elements are particularly suitable for use as external water barriers, especially for sealing expansion joints.

[0206] Figure 7 Showing according to Figure 5 The cross-section of a sealing element is shown in another embodiment of the presented sealing element. In this embodiment, the first and second sides (4,5) of the profile (2) have wedge-shaped cross-sections, i.e., the thickness of the cross-section of the side (4,5) increases in the width direction of the side. These types of sealing elements are particularly suitable for use as internal water barriers, especially for sealing expansion joints.

[0207] Figure 8 Showing according to Figure 4 The cross-section of the sealing element is shown in another embodiment of the sealing element. In this embodiment, the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides (4, 5) are substantially completely covered by the functional coating (6). The central portion (3) is in the form of an expansion element having inner and outer main surfaces. The expansion element is in the form of a hollow profile with a circular (closed) cross-section, and the outer main surface of the expansion element is substantially completely covered by the functional coating (6). These types of sealing elements are particularly suitable for use as internal water barriers, especially for sealing expansion joints.

[0208] Figure 9A cross-section of a sealing element according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the sealing element (1) comprises a profile (2) having a central portion (3) and first and second side portions (4,5) extending outward from the central portion (3) and on opposite sides of the central portion (3), wherein the side portions (4,5) are in the form of planar elements having top and bottom main surfaces. The top and bottom main surfaces of the side portions (4,5) of the profile (2) are substantially completely covered by a functional coating (6), and the central portion (3) of the profile (2) is in the form of an expansion element configured such that it can stretch in the lateral direction beyond the normal elastic capacity of the material to which it is made. The expansion element is in the form of a hollow profile having an open “corrugated” cross-section having top and bottom main surfaces, neither of which is covered by the functional coating. The functional coating covering the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second side portions and the profile of the sealing element are indirectly bonded to each other on their opposite surfaces by a connecting layer (7). These types of sealing elements are particularly suitable for use as internal water barriers, especially for sealing expansion joints.

Claims

1. A sealing element for sealing joints in concrete structures, the sealing element (1) having no ribs or other locking structures and comprising: - A profile (2) having a central portion (3) and first and second side portions (4,5) on opposite sides of the central portion (3), the side portions (4,5) having top and bottom main surfaces and the first and second side portions (4,5) being in the form of planar elements, wherein - At least 70% of the total surface area of ​​at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and / or second sides (4,5) is covered with a functional coating (6), which is applicable to bond with and allow hardening of a fresh cementitious composition cast thereon, and wherein -The central part (3) is in the form of a planar element with a top and bottom main surface or -The central part (3) is in the form of an expansion element; The profile (2) is composed of a first composition containing at least one thermoplastic polymer P1. The functional coating (6) comprises a second composition containing 25-75 wt% of at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 and 25-75 wt% of at least one solid particulate filler F based on the total weight of the second composition, wherein the particles of the at least one solid particulate filler F are dispersed throughout the entire volume of the functional coating and the at least one solid particulate filler F is an inorganic filler selected from mineral binders and inert mineral fillers. The at least one thermoplastic polymer P1 and P2 are each selected from ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene-acrylate copolymer, ethylene-α-olefin copolymer, ethylene-propylene copolymer, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyamide, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, ethylene propylene diene rubber, and polyisobutylene; and The functional coating and the profile of the sealing element are bonded directly to each other on their opposing surfaces.

2. The sealing element according to claim 1, wherein the ends of the sides (4,5) are bubble-like protrusions.

3. The sealing element of claim 1, wherein at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides (4, 5) is at least partially covered with a functional coating (6).

4. The sealing element according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the top and bottom main surfaces of the first and second sides (4,5) are at least partially covered with a functional coating (6).

5. The sealing element according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the central portion (3) is in the form of a planar element having a top and a bottom main surface, neither of which is covered with a functional coating (6) or wherein the central portion (3) is in the form of an expansion element constructed such that it can stretch in the lateral direction beyond the normal elastic capacity of the material in which it is made.

6. The sealing element of claim 5, wherein the expansion element is in the form of a hollow profile having a closed or open cross-section.

7. The sealing element according to claim 1, wherein at least one thermoplastic polymer P2 is selected from low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene-acrylate copolymer, ethylene-α-olefin copolymer and ethylene-propylene copolymer.

8. A method for preparing a sealing element according to any one of claims 1-7, the method comprising the steps of: extruding and / or calendering a first thermoplastic composition comprising profile components, and applying a functional coating on at least one of the top and bottom main surfaces of the profile.

9. A method for sealing a joint between two portions of concrete using an internal water-blocking element, the method comprising the steps of: providing a sealing element according to any one of claims 1-7 and subsequently casting the first and second portions of concrete such that: - The first side of the profile is embedded in the first part of the concrete. - The second side of the profile is embedded in the second part of the concrete, where - The central part is placed at the joint formed between the two concrete sections.

10. The method of claim 9, comprising the following steps: i) The positioning sealing element positions the center portion of the profile between the upper and lower parts of the separated template. ii) Optionally, the first side of the profile is secured to one or more reinforcing bars. iii) Pour the first portion of concrete so that the first side of the profile is embedded in the concrete. iv) Pour the second portion of concrete so that the second side of the profile is embedded in the concrete.

11. A method for sealing the joint between two concrete sections using an external water-blocking component, the method comprising the following steps: i') Position the sealing element according to any one of claims 1-7 on the substrate where the concrete will be poured. ii') Cast the first and second portions of concrete such that the center portion of the profile is located in or along the joint formed between the concrete casting portions, and the functional coating on the first side of the profile is directly attached to the surface of the first portion of concrete and the functional coating on the second side of the profile is directly attached to the surface of the second portion of concrete.

12. A sealing structure comprising two concrete portions, a gap between the concrete portions, and a sealing element (1) according to any one of claims 1-7 located at the joint, wherein a first side portion (4) of a profile is connected to the first concrete portion, a central portion (3) of the profile is located in or along the gap, and a second side portion (5) of the profile is connected to the second concrete portion.

13. The use of the sealing element according to any one of claims 1-7 for sealing joints in concrete structures.

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