Production method of full-bonding water blocking strip

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing a weather strip (1), said method comprising the steps of: providing a first and a second sealing element (2, 3), each sealing element (2, 3) comprising a carrier layer (4, 4 ') having an upper main surface and a lower main surface; the carrier layer (4, 4 ') and a filled polymer layer (5, 5') covering at least a portion of the upper main surface of the carrier layer (4, 4 '), and bonding the lower main surface of the carrier layer (4) of the first sealing element (2) to at least a portion of the lower main surface of the carrier layer (4') of the second sealing element (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to sealing elements and their use in sealing concrete joints to prevent water penetration. Specifically, this invention relates to a method for producing a water-retaining strip suitable for sealing joints formed between cast concrete portions. Background Technology

[0002] Polymer sheets, often referred to as waterproof membranes, are commonly 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 imbalances, or concrete shrinkage. Furthermore, large concrete structures, such as thick slabs, dams, tanks, and foundations, cannot be cast as a single unit; therefore, they contain several joints formed between the concrete sections. These concrete joints must also be sealed to prevent water from entering and passing through them.

[0003] Waterproof profiles, also known as water barriers or waterproofing strips, are commonly used for sealing concrete joints. They are offered in a range of different compositions, shapes, and sizes to suit different types of concrete structures and sealing applications. Joints are typically provided between adjacent concrete sections to accommodate anticipated physical changes in the concrete as it is subjected to environmental and mechanical conditions, or to aid in the construction and pouring of the concrete. These physical changes may be caused by the drying, shrinkage, carbonation, or creep of the concrete blocks, or by loads applied to the concrete section. Joints can also form between concrete sections, for example, due to planned or unplanned interruptions in the concrete pouring process.

[0004] 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 cracking that occurs during the hardening process of concrete due to unavoidable and unpredictable shrinkage. Shrinkage joints can be created during concrete pouring by forming joints with slabs, or by cutting joints after construction. Furthermore, construction joints may be created at certain locations during large-volume concrete pours due to planned or unplanned interruptions. In these cases, dimensional changes in the poured concrete are not expected, and therefore, construction joints do not have predetermined expansion gaps.

[0005] Water barriers are typically configured as strip profiles with a central section and two side sections or flanges located on opposite sides of the central section. Depending on the application, the central section of the water barrier can be placed along the concrete joint (“external water barrier”) or placed inside the concrete joint to be formed (“internal water barrier”). Water barriers are available in various shapes and sizes to meet the requirements of the relevant sealing applications. Flat and dumbbell-shaped water barriers are commonly used for construction and shrinkage joints, while water barriers with expansion elements, such as “center bubbles,” are primarily used for sealing expansion joints. Center bubbles are typically supplied in the form of hollow profiles, which allow for a wider range of movement in the transverse, lateral, or shear directions without overstretching the material.

[0006] Water barriers are typically used in pre-applied waterproofing applications, where the sealing element is installed in place before the concrete joint to be waterproofed forms. Water barriers can be installed as external sealing elements, in which case the side flanges of the water barrier are embedded in the back of the concrete structure, or as internal sealing elements, in which case the side flanges are fully embedded in the cast concrete structure. The method of sealing concrete joints using external water barriers generally involves the following steps: placing the water barrier on the substrate and the cast concrete section such that the side flanges are embedded in the back of the cast concrete, and positioning the center of the water barrier along the formed concrete joint. External water barriers are equally suitable for sealing expansion joints, construction joints, and shrinkage joints.

[0007] The method of sealing concrete joints using internal water-stop strips typically involves the following steps: placing the water-stop strip inside the joint to be formed after concrete pouring, with its center located in the middle of the planned concrete joint. Installation of the water-stop strip can be done, for example, by using a detachable formwork that allows the water-stop strip to be inserted through the formwork. Typically, at least one of the side flanges is secured to reinforcing steel to prevent undesirable movement of the water-stop strip during the pouring of the concrete section. After pouring the first section of concrete, the formwork is removed, followed by the pouring of the second section. In the case of expansion joints, expansion plates or filler plates are typically placed in the joint opening after the formwork is removed and before the pouring of the second section of concrete. Such expansion plates are composed of compressible materials, such as foam-based and fiber-based materials, and are designed to absorb the expansion and contraction movement of adjacent concrete bodies.

[0008] The most common materials used to provide water-blocking components include metals and polymers such as rubbers, including styrene-butadiene rubber, butyl rubber, nitrile rubber, and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, as well as thermoplastics, particularly polyolefins and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Polymers do not bond well to concrete; therefore, the side flanges of water-blocking strips are typically provided with multiple raised ribs, fins, or other protrusions, which provide mechanical interlocking with the concrete structure and a seal against water flow when embedded in it. Strip thermoplastic profiles can be easily produced using extrusion technology, but the various shapes of the laterally extending flanges complicate the production process and increase production costs. Furthermore, water-blocking strips are typically composed of relatively rigid materials so that the side flanges can be effectively anchored to the cast concrete structure via fins, ribs, and other protrusions. Due to the rigidity of the material and the presence of protrusions, water-blocking strips cannot be stored in rolls like waterproof membranes, increasing the amount of space required for their transport and storage.

[0009] Published patent application EP 3645804 A1 discloses a multi-layer, fully bonded waterstop strip comprising a profile having a central portion and two side portions, wherein at least one of the top and bottom surfaces of the side portions is at least partially covered with a functional coating that effectively bonds to a fresh cementitious composition. The advantage of the disclosed waterstop strip design is that the side portions can be anchored to the concrete structure without the use of ribs or other interlocking structures, which reduces the production cost of the waterstop strip. However, the method for producing the disclosed waterstop strip remains complex because the multi-layer structure with the profile and two functional coatings is produced via a co-extrusion process requiring the use of three separate extruders.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for a new method for producing fully bonded water barriers that solves or at least mitigates the problems of the prior art methods discussed above. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method for producing fully bonded water-blocking strips, which solves or at least alleviates the problems of the prior art methods discussed above.

[0012] In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a simplified method that, compared with prior art methods, enables the production of fully bonded water barriers at a reduced cost.

[0013] Surprisingly, these objectives can be achieved using the features of claim 1.

[0014] Specifically, according to the present invention, a method for producing a water-blocking strip (1) is proposed, the method comprising the following steps:

[0015] I) Provides first and second sealing elements (2, 3), each sealing element (2, 3) comprising a carrier layer (4, 4') and a functional layer (5, 5'), the carrier layer (4, 4') comprising at least one polymer P1 and having an upper main surface and a lower main surface, the functional layer (5, 5') covering at least a portion of the upper main surface of the carrier layer (4, 4'), and

[0016] II) Bond the first and second sealing elements (2, 3) together such that their carrier layers (4, 4') are directly or indirectly connected to each other on at least a portion of their opposing lower main surfaces.

[0017] The functional layers (5, 5') of the first and second sealing elements (2, 3) are effectively bonded to the fresh cement-based composition cast thereon and allowed to harden.

[0018] The proposed method has proven to produce fully bonded water barriers at a reduced cost compared to methods disclosed in the prior art.

[0019] Further aspects of the invention are set forth in the other independent claims. Preferred embodiments of the invention are summarized throughout the specification and dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 A cross-section of a sealing element (2) is shown, comprising a carrier layer (4) having an upper main surface and a lower main surface, and a functional layer (5) substantially covering the entire area of ​​the upper main surface of the carrier layer (4).

[0021] Figure 2 A cross-section of a sealing element (2) is shown, comprising a carrier layer (4) having an upper main surface and a lower main surface, a functional layer (5) substantially covering the entire area of ​​the upper main surface of the carrier layer (4), and a reinforcing layer (7) fully embedded in the carrier layer (4).

[0022] Figure 3 A cross-section of a sealing element (2) is shown, comprising a carrier layer (4) having an upper main surface and a lower main surface, a functional layer (5) substantially covering the entire area of ​​the upper main surface of the carrier layer (4), and a reinforcing layer (7) disposed between the carrier layer (4) and the functional layer (5).

[0023] Figure 4 A cross-section of a sealing element (2) is shown, comprising a carrier layer (4) having an upper main surface and a lower main surface and a functional layer (5) substantially covering the entire area of ​​the upper main surface of the carrier layer (4), wherein the functional layer has an upper main surface containing a surface structure (6).

[0024] Figure 5A cross-section of a water-blocking strip (1) is shown, which includes a first sealing element (2) and a second sealing element (3), wherein the carrier layers (4, 4') of the sealing elements (2, 3) are directly connected to each other on their opposing lower main surfaces.

[0025] Figure 6 A cross-section of a water barrier (1) is shown, which includes a first sealing element (2) and a second sealing element (3) and a reinforcing layer (8) sandwiched between the carrier layers (4, 4') of the sealing elements (2, 3). Detailed Implementation

[0026] The subject of this invention is a method for producing a water-blocking strip (1), which includes the following steps:

[0027] I) Provides first and second sealing elements (2, 3), each sealing element (2, 3) comprising a carrier layer (4, 4') and a functional layer (5, 5'), the carrier layer (4, 4') comprising at least one polymer P1 and having an upper main surface and a lower main surface, the functional layer (5, 5') covering at least a portion of the upper main surface of the carrier layer (4, 4'), and

[0028] II) Bond the first and second sealing elements (2, 3) together such that their carrier layers (4, 4') are directly or indirectly connected to each other on at least a portion of their opposing lower main surfaces.

[0029] The functional layers (5, 5') of the first and second sealing elements (2, 3) are effectively bonded to the fresh cement-based composition cast thereon and allowed to harden.

[0030] The term "polymer" refers to a collection of chemically homogeneous macromolecules produced by a polymerization reaction (polymerization, addition polymerization, condensation polymerization), wherein the macromolecules differ in 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 such as addition or substitution of functional groups in a predetermined macromolecule, which may be chemically homogeneous or chemically heterogeneous.

[0031] The term "polyolefin" refers to homopolymers and copolymers produced solely from olefin monomers. Therefore, copolymers of olefin monomers and non-olefin monomers, such as copolymers of ethylene and vinyl acetate, are not "polyolefins" as defined in this invention.

[0032] The term "α-olefin" refers to an alpha-olefin with the molecular formula C60-1200. x H 2xAn alkene (x corresponding to the number of carbon atoms) characterized by a carbon-carbon double bond at 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, and styrene are not referred to as "α-olefins".

[0033] The term "rubber" refers to a polymer or polymer blend that recovers from large deformations and can be, or has been, modified to be substantially insoluble (but swellable) in boiling solvents, particularly xylene. Typical rubber can elongate or deform to at least 200% of its original size under externally applied forces and will substantially recover its original size after the force is released, maintaining only small permanent deformations (typically no more than about 20%). As used herein, the term "rubber" may be used interchangeably with the term "elastomer".

[0034] The term "softening point" refers to the temperature at which a compound softens into a rubbery state, or the temperature at which the crystalline parts of the compound melt. The softening point can be determined by the ring and ball method according to DIN EN 1238:2011.

[0035] The term "melting temperature" refers to the temperature at which a material undergoes a transition from a solid to a liquid state. Melting temperature (T) m The temperature (T) is preferably determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) using a heating rate of 2 °C / min, according to ISO 11357-3:2018. Measurements can be performed using a Mettler Toledo DSC 3+ device, and T can be determined from the measured DSC curves with the aid of DSC software. m Value. When the measured DSC curve shows several peak temperatures, the first peak temperature from the lower temperature side of the thermogram is taken as the melting temperature (T). m ).

[0036] The term "glass transition temperature" (T) g The glass transition temperature (G'') refers to the temperature at which the polymer component softens and becomes flexible above a certain temperature, and hardens and glasses below a certain temperature. The glass transition temperature is preferably determined by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) as the peak value of the loss modulus (G'') curve measured using an applied frequency of 1 Hz and a strain level of 0.1%.

[0037] The "amount or content of at least one component X" in the composition, such as "amount of at least one polymer P1", refers to the sum of the individual amounts of all polymers P1 contained in the composition. Furthermore, if the composition contains 20% by weight of at least one polymer P1, the sum of the amounts of all polymers P1 contained in the composition equals 20% by weight.

[0038] The term "normal room temperature" refers to a temperature of 23°C.

[0039] The method for producing a water-blocking strip includes a first step (I), in which two sealing elements are provided, each having a carrier layer and a functional layer having at least a portion of an upper main surface covering the carrier layer.

[0040] The carrier layer is preferably a sheet-like element having a top surface and a bottom surface (i.e., an upper main surface and a lower main surface) and a thickness defined therebetween.

[0041] Preferably, the functional layer cover layer in each sealing element covers at least 75% of the entire area of ​​the upper main surface of the carrier layer, more preferably at least 85%, more preferably at least 95%, even more preferably at least 97.5%, and even more preferably at least 99%.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, the functional layer substantially covers the entire area of ​​the upper main surface of the carrier layer. The phrase "substantially the entire area" should be understood to mean that the functional layer extends as a continuous layer of material between the opposing longitudinal and transverse edges of the carrier layer. However, the functional layer may contain apertures whose size is negligible compared to the total area of ​​the functional layer, for example, less than 0.01% of the total surface area of ​​the functional layer, preferably less than 0.005%, more preferably less than 0.001%.

[0043] In step II) of the method, the first and second sealing elements are bonded to each other such that their carrier layers are directly or indirectly connected to each other on at least a portion of their opposing lower main surfaces.

[0044] In the context of this invention, the term "direct connection" should be understood to mean that there is no other layer or material, such as an adhesive layer, between the adhesive layers, and that the opposing surfaces of the two layers are directly connected to each other, particularly bonded. In the transition region between the two layers, the materials forming the layers may also be mixed together.

[0045] The first and second sealing elements may also be bonded to each other, such that their carrier layers become indirectly connected to each other, for example via a connecting layer, such as an adhesive layer, or via a fiber-based reinforcing layer, or a combination thereof. In the case of porous connecting layers, such as open-woven fabrics, the carrier layers may become partially directly and partially indirectly connected to each other.

[0046] Preferably, at least 90%, more preferably at least 95%, even more preferably at least 97.5%, and still more preferably at least 99% of the lower main surface of the carrier layer of the second sealing element is directly or indirectly bonded to the lower main surface of the carrier layer of the first sealing element.

[0047] In one or more embodiments, step II) of the method is performed by thermally or adhesively laminating the lower main surface of the carrier layer of the first sealing element to at least a portion of the lower main surface of the carrier layer of the second sealing element.

[0048] The term "thermal lamination" in this disclosure refers to the process of bonding corresponding layers together by applying heat and pressure such that the layers remain bonded together when the pressure is removed.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, the thermal lamination in step II) of the method comprises applying sufficient heat energy to at least one of the lower main surfaces of the carrier layers of the first and second sealing elements to at least partially melt the composition forming the respective one or more layers, then preferably bringing the opposing lower main surfaces of the carrier layers into contact with each other under pressure, and cooling the layers, thereby forming a bond between the carrier layers of the first and second sealing elements without the use of an adhesive. The application of heat energy in the thermal lamination step can be performed, for example, using laser, hot air, or infrared heating means.

[0050] In one or more other embodiments, the adhesive lamination in step II) of the method includes applying an adhesive composition as an adhesive layer to the lower main surface of the first sealing element, and then optionally bringing the opposing lower main surface of the second sealing element into contact with the surface of the adhesive layer under pressure to achieve the formation of an adhesive bond between the carrier layers of the first and second sealing elements.

[0051] Depending on the type of adhesive, the adhesive lamination in step II) may also include additional sub-steps. For example, in the case of using a hot melt adhesive in the adhesive lamination, the adhesive composition is preferably heated and applied in molten form to the lower main surface of the first sealing element, wherein the adhesive lamination further includes cooling the adhesive layer after the lower main surface of the carrier layer of the second sealing element has come into contact with the adhesive layer, thereby resulting in an adhesive bond between the carrier layers of the first and second sealing elements.

[0052] Adhesives suitable for adhesive lamination include, for example, reactive and non-reactive hot melt adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and one-component and multi-component reactive adhesives, particularly reactive epoxy, acrylic, and polyurethane adhesives.

[0053] In one or more embodiments, at least one of the first and second sealing elements further includes being fully embedded in the carrier layer (e.g., Figure 2As shown), or located between the carrier layer and the functional layer (such as...). Figure 3 The reinforcement layer (as shown). The term "fully embedded" should be understood as meaning that the reinforcement layer is essentially completely covered by the matrix of the carrier layer.

[0054] The reinforcing layer can be used to ensure the mechanical stability of the first and second sealing elements when the water barrier is exposed to changing environmental conditions.

[0055] Preferably, the reinforcing layer is selected from nonwoven fabrics, woven fabrics, and laid scrims, and more preferably from nonwoven fabrics and laid scrims.

[0056] The term "nonwoven fabric" in this disclosure 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 bonding materials, are used to hold the fibers together in the nonwoven fabric.

[0057] Preferred nonwoven fabrics used as reinforcing layers include synthetic organic and / or inorganic fibers. Particularly suitable synthetic organic fibers for nonwoven fabrics include, for example, polyester fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyethylene fibers, nylon fibers, and polyamide fibers, while particularly suitable inorganic fibers include, for example, glass fibers, aramid fibers, wollastonite fibers, and carbon fibers.

[0058] The term "layout mesh" in this disclosure refers to a mesh-like nonwoven product consisting of at least two sets of parallel yarns (also referred to as weft and warp yarns) laid on top of each other and chemically bonded together. The yarns of the nonwoven loose fabric are typically arranged at an angle of 60-120° (e.g., 90±5°) to each other, thus creating gaps that occupy more than 60% of the total surface area of ​​the layout mesh. Common materials used for layout mesh include metal fibers, inorganic fibers, particularly glass fibers, and synthetic organic fibers, particularly polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0059] According to one or more embodiments, the reinforcing layer is a nonwoven fabric or a laid-out mesh, preferably having a strength of no more than 500 g / m². 2 More preferably, not more than 350g / m 2 The mass per unit weight. In one or more embodiments, the mass per unit weight of the reinforcing layer is 10-500 g / m². 2 Preferred size: 20-400g / m 2 More preferably 25-300g / m 2Even better, 30-200g / m 2 .

[0060] In one or more embodiments, the method includes additional steps of providing a reinforcing layer, wherein step II) of bonding the first and second sealing elements to each other is performed such that the reinforcing layer is sandwiched between the carrier layers of the first and second sealing elements. Figure 6 A cross-section of a water-blocking strip with a reinforcing layer sandwiched between the carrier layers of the first and second sealing elements is shown.

[0061] Depending on the type of reinforcing layer, and especially its porosity, the carrier layers of the first and second sealing elements can be indirectly connected to each other, or partially directly connected and partially indirectly connected.

[0062] The preferred options given above for the reinforcement layer also apply to the strengthening layer.

[0063] The method for producing the water-barrier strip according to the present invention can be carried out using any conventional lamination technology, particularly any conventional laminator, as is known to those skilled in the art. For example, the method for producing the water-barrier strip can be carried out using a hot laminator equipped with an infrared heating device.

[0064] Preferably, based on the total weight of the carrier layer, the carrier layer contains at least 35% by weight, preferably at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 75% by weight, and even more preferably at least 85% by weight of at least one polymer P1.

[0065] At least one polymer P1 is preferably selected from ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, polyvinyl chloride, polyolefins, halogenated polyolefins, rubbers, and ketene vinyl esters.

[0066] Suitable polyvinyl chloride resins have a K value of 50-85, more preferably 65-75, determined by the method described in ISO 1628-2-1998. The K value is a measure of the polymerization grade of the PVC resin, which is determined by the viscosity of the PVC homopolymer as the primary resin dissolved in cyclohexanone at 30°C.

[0067] Suitable ethylene and vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers include those in which the content of structural units derived from vinyl acetate is in the range of 4-95% by weight, preferably 6-90% by weight, based on the weight of the copolymer. Particularly suitable ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers include ethylene-vinyl acetate binary copolymers and terpolymers, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate carbon monoxide terpolymers.

[0068] Suitable ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers are commercially available, for example, under the trade names Escorene® (from Exxon Mobil), Primeva® (from Repsol Quimica SA), Evatane® (from Arkema Functional Polyolefins), Greenflex® (from Eni versalis SpA), and Levapren® (from Arlanxeo GmbH).

[0069] Suitable polyolefins include, for example, polyethylene, ethylene copolymers, polypropylene and propylene copolymers.

[0070] Suitable polyethylenes include, for example, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), preferably having a melt temperature of 100°C or higher, more preferably 105°C or higher, and more preferably 110°C or higher, as determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at a heating rate of 2°C / min according to ISO 11357-3:2018. m ).

[0071] Other suitable polyethylenes include ethylene-α-olefin copolymers, particularly ethylene and one or more C3-C... 20 α-olefin monomers, particularly one or more random and block copolymers of propylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene, 1-heptene, 1-octene, 1-decene, 1-dodecene and 1-hexadecene, preferably comprising at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 65% by weight, of ethylene-derived units based on the weight of the copolymer.

[0072] Suitable ethylene α-olefin random copolymers include, for example, ethylene-based plastomers, which are commercially available, for example under the trade name Affinity®, such as Affinity® EG 8100G, Affinity® EG 8200G, Affinity® SL8110G, Affinity® KC 8852G, Affinity® VP 8770G, and Affinity® PF 1140G (all from Dow Chemical Company); under the trade name Exact®, such as Exact® 3024, Exact® 3027, Exact® 3128, Exact® 3131, Exact® 4049, Exact® 4053, Exact® 5371, and Exact® 8203 (all from Exxon Mobil); and under the trade name Queo® (from Borealis). The products are commercially available from Dow Chemical Company, including ethylene-based polyolefin elastomers (POEs) such as Engage® 7256, Engage® 7467, Engage® 7447, Engage® 8003, Engage® 8100, Engage® 8480, Engage® 8540, Engage® 8440, Engage® 8450, Engage® 8452, Engage® 8200 and Engage® 8414.

[0073] Suitable ethylene α-olefin block copolymers include ethylene-based olefin block copolymers (OBCs), which are commercially available, for example under the trade name Infuse®, such as Infuse® 9100, Infuse® 9107, Infuse® 9500, Infuse® 9507 and Infuse® 9530 (all from Dow Chemical Company).

[0074] Suitable polypropylenes include, for example, isotactic polypropylene (iPP), syndiotactic polypropylene (sPP), and homopolymer polypropylene (hPP), which preferably have a melt temperature of 100°C or higher, preferably 105°C or higher, more preferably 110°C or higher, as determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at a heating rate of 2°C / min according to ISO 11357-3:2018. m ).

[0075] Other suitable polypropylenes include propylene α-olefin copolymers, such as random and block copolymers of propylene and ethylene, and propylene and one or more C4-C copolymers. 20 α-olefin monomers, particularly one or more random and block copolymers of 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene, 1-heptene, 1-octene, 1-decene, 1-dodecene, and 1-hexadecene, preferably comprising at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 65% by weight, of propylene-derived units based on the weight of the copolymer.

[0076] Suitable propylene α-olefin random and block copolymers are commercially available, for example under the trade names Intune® and Versify (from Dow Chemical Company) and Vistamaxx® (from Exxon Mobil).

[0077] Other suitable polypropylenes include multiphase propylene copolymers. These are multiphase polymer systems comprising a highly crystalline base polyolefin and a low-crystallinity or amorphous polyolefin modifier. The multiphase morphology consists of a matrix phase primarily composed of the base polyolefin and a dispersed phase primarily composed of the polyolefin modifier. Suitable commercially available multiphase propylene copolymers include reactor blends of the base polyolefin and the polyolefin modifier, also known as “in-situ TPO” or “reactor TPO” or “impact copolymer (ICP)”, which are typically produced in sequential polymerization methods, wherein the matrix phase component is produced in a first reactor and transferred to a second reactor, in which the dispersed phase component is produced and incorporated as a structural domain into the matrix phase. Multiphase propylene copolymers comprising polypropylene homopolymers as the base polymer are generally referred to as “multiphase propylene copolymers (HECO)”, while multiphase propylene copolymers comprising polypropylene random copolymers as the base polymer are generally referred to as “multiphase propylene random copolymers (RAHECO)”. The term “multiphase propylene copolymer” in this disclosure covers both HECO and RAHECO types of multiphase propylene copolymers.

[0078] Depending on the amount of polyolefin modifier, commercially available multiphase propylene copolymers are typically described as “impact copolymers” (ICP), “reactor-TPO”, or “soft TPO”. The main difference between these types of multiphase propylene copolymers is that the amount of polyolefin modifier in ICP is generally lower than in reactor-TPO and soft TPO, for example, not exceeding 40% by weight, and particularly not exceeding 35% by weight. Therefore, compared to reactor-TPO and soft TPO, typical ICP tends to have a lower xylene cold solubles (XCS) content as determined according to ISO 16152:2005 and a higher flexural modulus as determined according to ISO 178:2010.

[0079] Suitable multiphase propylene copolymers include reactor-produced TPO and soft TPO produced using LyondellBasell's Catalloy process technology, commercially available under the trade names Adflex®, Adsyl®, Clyrell®, Hifax®, Hiflex®, and Softell®, such as Hifax® CA 10A, Hifax® CA 12A, Hifax® CA 60 A, and Hifax CA 212 A. Other suitable multiphase propylene copolymers are commercially available under the trade name Borsoft® (from Borealis Polymers), such as Borsoft® SD233 CF.

[0080] Suitable rubbers include, for example, butyl rubber, halogenated butyl rubber, ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber (EPDM), natural rubber, chloroprene rubber, synthetic 1,4-cis-polyisoprene, polybutadiene, ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), isoprene-butadiene copolymer, styrene-isoprene-butadiene rubber, methyl methacrylate-butadiene copolymer, methyl methacrylate-isoprene copolymer, acrylonitrile-isoprene copolymer, and acrylonitrile-butadiene copolymer.

[0081] The carrier layer may additionally contain one or more additives, such as fillers, UV and heat stabilizers, antioxidants, flame retardants, dyes, pigments such as titanium dioxide, matting agents, antistatic agents, impact modifiers, biocides, and processing aids such as lubricants, slip agents, anti-blocking agents, and anti-denesting agents. However, preferably, the total weight of these types of additives accounts for no more than 50% by weight of the total weight of the carrier layer, more preferably no more than 35% by weight, and even more preferably no more than 15% by weight.

[0082] The carrier layer preferably has a thickness of 0.15-5 mm, preferably 0.25-3.5 mm, more preferably 0.35-3 mm, or even more preferably 0.5-2.5 mm, as measured by the method defined in EN 1849-2:2019.

[0083] According to the present invention, the functional layer is effectively bonded to a fresh cementitious composition cast thereon and allowed to harden. The term "effectively bonded to the cementitious composition" should be understood as meaning that the functional layer and the fresh cementitious composition cast thereon form a permanent bond after hardening.

[0084] Furthermore, the term "cement-based composition" herein refers to concrete, shotcrete, grout, mortar, paste, or a combination thereof. The terms "paste," "mortar," "concrete," "shotcrete," and "grout" are well-known terms in the prior 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 gravel or crushed stone. Shotcrete is concrete (sometimes mortar) delivered via hose and pneumatically sprayed onto a surface at high speed. Grout is a particularly fluid form of concrete used to fill gaps. Cement-based compositions can be formed by mixing desired amounts of specific components (e.g., hydratable cement, water, and fine and / or coarse aggregates) to produce a particular cement-based composition. The terms "fresh cement-based composition" or "liquid cement-based composition" refer to a cement-based composition before hardening, particularly before setting.

[0085] The functional layer is preferably selected from fiber material layers, filled polymer layers, bitumen-based layers, and pressure-sensitive adhesive layers.

[0086] According to one or more embodiments, the functional layer includes or is a fiber material layer.

[0087] The term "fiber material" herein refers to a material composed of fibers, including, for example, organic, inorganic, or synthetic organic materials or composed of them. Examples of organic fibers include, for example, cellulose fibers, cotton fibers, and protein fibers. Particularly suitable synthetic organic materials include, for example, 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 metal or mineral fibers, such as glass fibers, aramid fibers, wollastonite fibers, and carbon fibers. Inorganic fibers that have been surface-treated, for example, with silanes, may also be suitable. Fiber materials may include short fibers, long fibers, spun fibers (yarns), or filaments. Fibers may be oriented or drawn fibers. It may also be advantageous for fiber materials to consist of fibers of different types in geometry and composition.

[0088] Preferably, the fiber material layer is selected from nonwoven fabrics, woven fabrics, and laid-out mesh fabrics.

[0089] According to one or more embodiments, the fiber material layer is a nonwoven fabric, preferably with a mass per unit weight of no more than 350 g / m². 2 Preferably not greater than 300 g / m 2 According to one or more embodiments, the fiber material layer has a density of 15-300 g / m². 2 Preferred concentration: 20-250 g / m2 More preferably 25-200 g / m 2 , or even better, 30-150 g / m 2 Nonwoven fabrics with a unit area mass.

[0090] Preferably, the nonwoven fabric of the fibrous material layer comprises synthetic organic and / or inorganic fibers. Particularly suitable synthetic organic fibers for nonwoven fabrics include, for example, polyester fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyethylene fibers, nylon fibers, and polyamide fibers. Particularly suitable inorganic fibers for nonwoven fabrics include, for example, glass fibers, aramid fibers, wollastonite fibers, and carbon fibers.

[0091] According to one or more embodiments, the nonwoven fabric of the fiber material layer has synthetic organic fibers as the main fiber component, preferably selected from polyester fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyethylene fibers, nylon fibers, and polyamide fibers. According to one or more other embodiments, the nonwoven fabric has inorganic fibers as the main fiber component, preferably selected from glass fibers, aramid fibers, wollastonite fibers, and carbon fibers, more preferably glass fibers.

[0092] According to one or more embodiments, the functional layer comprises a filled polymer layer or a filled polymer layer.

[0093] Preferably, the filled polymer layer comprises:

[0094] a) 25-75% by weight, preferably 35-70% by weight, more preferably 40-65% by weight, even more preferably 45-65% by weight of at least one polymer P2, and

[0095] b) 15-65% by weight, preferably 25-60% by weight, more preferably 30-55% by weight, and even more preferably 35-50% by weight of at least one solid particulate filler F, all proportions being based on the total weight of the filled polymer layer.

[0096] Preferably, at least one polymer P2 is selected from ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, polyolefin, halogenated polyolefin, rubber and ketene vinyl ester, more preferably from ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, polyolefin and polyvinyl chloride.

[0097] According to one or more embodiments, at least one polymer P2 comprises at least one ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer P21.

[0098] Generally, the expression "at least one component X comprises at least one component XN", such as "at least one polymer P2 comprises at least one ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer P21", is understood in the context of this disclosure to mean that the composition comprises one or more ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers P21 as a representative of at least one polymer P2.

[0099] Preferably, based on the weight of the copolymer, the content of at least one vinyl acetate copolymer P21 derived from vinyl acetate structural units is at least 5% by weight, more preferably at least 15% by weight, even more preferably at least 25% by weight, still more preferably at least 35% by weight, and most preferably at least 40% by weight.

[0100] According to one or more embodiments, based on the weight of the copolymer, the content of at least one vinyl acetate copolymer P21 containing vinyl acetate-derived structural units is 5-95% by weight, preferably 15-90% by weight, more preferably 25-90% by weight, and even more preferably 35-90% by weight. According to one or more preferred embodiments, based on the weight of the copolymer, the content of at least one vinyl acetate copolymer P21 containing vinyl acetate-derived structural units is 30-95% by weight, preferably 40-90% by weight, and more preferably 45-90% by weight.

[0101] Ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers with the content of structural units derived from vinyl acetate within the above range are particularly suitable for use as filler polymer layers because they have been found to provide the functional layers with improved ability to form a bond with fresh cementitious compositions after hardening.

[0102] According to one or more embodiments, at least one ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer P21 accounts for at least 15% by weight of the total weight of at least one polymer P2, preferably at least 25% by weight, more preferably at least 35% by weight, and even more preferably at least 50% by weight.

[0103] According to one or more embodiments, at least one polymer P2 further comprises at least one polymer P22 that is different from at least one ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer P21, preferably selected from polyolefins, halogenated polyolefins, polyvinyl chloride and ketene vinyl esters.

[0104] Suitable polyolefins for use as at least one polymer P22 include, for example, polyethylene, ethylene copolymers, polypropylene and propylene copolymers as discussed above.

[0105] Preferably, the proportion of at least one polymer P22 is no more than 75% by weight of the total weight of at least one polymer P2, preferably no more than 65% by weight, more preferably no more than 55% by weight, and even more preferably no more than 45% by weight. According to one or more embodiments, the proportion of at least one polymer P22 is 2.5-65% by weight of the total weight of at least one polymer P2, preferably 5-55% by weight, more preferably 10-50% by weight, and even more preferably 15-45% by weight.

[0106] Preferably, the at least one solid particulate filler F is selected from inert mineral fillers, mineral binders, and synthetic organic fillers.

[0107] According to one or more embodiments, the particle distribution of at least one solid particulate filler F is distributed throughout the entire volume of the filled polymer layer. The term "distribution throughout" means that substantially all portions of the filled polymer layer contain particles of the at least one filler, but does not necessarily mean that the particle distribution is completely uniform throughout the filled polymer layer.

[0108] Preferably, the filled polymer layer comprises a homogeneous mixture of at least one polymer P2 and at least one solid particulate filler F. "Hypergeneous mixture" in this disclosure refers to a composition in which the components are substantially uniformly distributed. Therefore, a homogeneous mixture of at least one polymer P2 and at least one solid particulate filler F refers to a composition in which the particles of at least one solid particulate filler F are uniformly / uniformly distributed in a polymer phase comprising at least one polymer P2. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that in such a mixed composition, regions may form 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, such mixed compositions with "imperfect" component distribution are also intended to be included in the term "homogeneous mixture" according to the invention.

[0109] Preferably, the at least one solid particulate filler F has:

[0110] - No more than 500 μm, more preferably no more than 350 μm, even more preferably no more than 250 μm, and even more preferably no more than 100 μm. 98 Particle size, and / or

[0111] - A median particle size d of no more than 150 μm, more preferably no more than 100 μm, even more preferably no more than 50 μm, and even more preferably no more than 25 μm. 50 , and / or

[0112] - No greater than 25 μm, more preferably no greater than 15 μm, even more preferably no greater than 5 μm, and still more preferably no greater than 2.5 μm. 10 granularity.

[0113] The term "particle size" in this disclosure refers to the area equivalent sphere diameter (X) of the particle. area ). Term d 90 In this disclosure, particle size refers to the 90% volume percentage of all particles smaller than d that are below this particle size. 90 The granularity of the value. Similarly, the term "median granularity d" refers to... 50 "This refers to the percentage by volume of all particles smaller than d that are less than 50% of the total volume." 50 The granularity of the value, and the term "d" 10"Particle size" refers to the percentage of all particles smaller than 10% by volume that are less than d. 10 The particle size distribution can be measured by laser diffraction using a wet or dry dispersion method and a Mastersizer 2000 apparatus (Malvern Instruments Ltd, a trademark of GB) according to the method described in standard ISO 13320:2009.

[0114] According to one or more embodiments, the median particle size d of at least one solid particulate filler F 50 The micrometer size is within the range of 0.1-50 μm, preferably 0.15-35 μm, more preferably 0.25-25 μm, even more preferably 0.35-20 μm, still more preferably 0.35-15 μm, and most preferably 0.5-10 μm.

[0115] According to one or more embodiments, the at least one solid particulate filler F is selected from inert mineral fillers and mineral binders.

[0116] According to one or more embodiments, at least one solid particulate packing F comprises at least one inert mineral packing F1.

[0117] The term "inert mineral filler" refers to mineral fillers that, unlike mineral binders, do not undergo a hydration reaction in the presence of water. Suitable mineral fillers for use as inert mineral filler F1 include, for example, sand, granite, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, clay, expanded clay, diatomaceous earth, pumice, mica, kaolin, dolomite, calcareous silica, perlite, vermiculite, wollastonite, barite, cristobalite, silica, fumed silica, fused silica, glass beads, hollow glass spheres, ceramic spheres, bauxite, crushed concrete, and zeolite.

[0118] The term "sand" in this document refers to mineral clastic sediments (clastic rocks), which are loose conglomerate (loose sediments) with rounded or angular small grains 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% by weight, particularly greater than 75% by weight, and especially preferably greater than 85% by weight. When used as an inert mineral filler, the term "calcium carbonate" refers to solid particulate matter produced from chalk, limestone, or marble through grinding and / or precipitation.

[0119] According to one or more embodiments, the at least one inert mineral filler F1 is selected from sand, granite, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, clay, expanded clay, diatomite, pumice, mica, kaolin, potash, dolomite, calcareous silica, perlite, vermiculite, wollastonite, barite, cristobalite, silica (quartz), fumed silica, fused silica, bauxite, crushed concrete, and zeolite, preferably selected from calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, diatomite, pumice, mica, dolomite, calcareous silica, perlite, vermiculite, wollastonite, barite, and crushed concrete.

[0120] According to one or more embodiments, at least one solid particulate packing F is composed of at least one inert mineral packing F1.

[0121] According to one or more embodiments, at least one solid particulate filler F comprises at least one mineral binder F2.

[0122] The term "mineral binder" in this disclosure refers to a mineral material that undergoes a hydration reaction in the presence of water. In particular, the term "mineral binder" refers to an unhydrated mineral binder, that is, an unreacted mineral binder that has not yet undergone a hydration reaction.

[0123] Suitable mineral binders for use as at least one solid particulate filler F include hydraulic binders, such as cement and hydraulic lime, calcium sulfate and air-hardening binders, such as non-hydrated lime, as well as potential hydraulic and hardening binder materials.

[0124] According to one or more embodiments, at least one mineral binder F2 comprises at least one hydraulic binder.

[0125] The term "hydraulic binder" as used herein refers to an inorganic material or blend that, when mixed with water, forms a paste and solidifies and hardens through a series of hydration reactions, resulting in the formation of solid mineral hydrates or hydrate phases that are insoluble in water or have very low water solubility. Hydraulic binders, such as Portland cement, can harden and retain their strength even when exposed to water, such as underwater or under high humidity conditions. Conversely, the term "non-hydraulic binder" refers to a substance that hardens by reacting with carbon dioxide and therefore does not harden under humid conditions or underwater.

[0126] Preferred hydraulic binders used as at least one mineral binder F2 include Portland cement, aluminate cement, and calcium sulfoaluminate cement.

[0127] As used herein, the term "Portland cement" is intended to include those cements generally understood as "Portland cement," particularly those described in European Standard EN-197. Portland cement is primarily composed of tricalcium silicate (A-mineral) (C3S) and dicalcium silicate (belite) (C2S). Preferred Portland cements include compositions of types CEM, CEM II, CEM III, CEM IV, and CEM V as defined in European Standard EN 197-1:2018-11. However, all other Portland cements produced according to another standard, such as ASTM standards, British (BSI) standards, Indian standards, or Chinese standards, are also suitable.

[0128] As used herein, the term "aluminate cement" is intended to include cementitious materials containing hydraulic calcium aluminate, preferably mono-calcium aluminate CA (CaO·Al2O3), as the main component (phase). Depending on the type of aluminate cement, other calcium aluminates, such as CA2, C3A, and C..., may also be present. 12 A7. Preferred aluminate cements also include other components such as belite (C2S), aluminate (C3S), ferrite (C2F, C2AF, C4AF), and ternisite (C5S2Ṧ). Some aluminate cements also contain calcium carbonate.

[0129] The most preferred aluminate cement for use as at least one mineral binder F2 includes calcium aluminate cement (CAC), which meets the requirements of standard EN 4647 (“Calcium aluminate cement”). Suitable calcium aluminate cements are commercially available, for example, from Imerys Aluminates and Royal White Cement.

[0130] The term "calcium sulfoaluminate cement (CSA)" is intended to include cementitious materials containing C4(A3-xFx)3Ṧ (4CaO · 3-x Al2O3 ·x Fe2O3 · CaSO4) as the main component (phase), where x has a value of 0, 1, 2, or 3. Typically, calcium sulfoaluminate cement also includes other components, such as aluminates (CA, C3A, C...). 12 A7), belite (C2S), ferrite (C2F, C2AF, C4AF), ternisite (C5S2Ṧ), and calcium sulfate. Based on the total weight of the calcium sulfoaluminate cement, the preferred calcium sulfoaluminate cement contains 20-80 wt% calcium sulfoaluminate (C4A3Ṧ), 0-10 wt% calcium aluminate (CA), 0-70 wt% belite (C2S), 0-35 wt% ferrite (preferably tetracalcium aluminoferrite (C4AF)), and 0-20 wt% ternisite (C5S2Ṧ). Suitable calcium aluminate cement is commercially available, for example from Heidelberg Cement AG, Vicat SA, and Caltra BV.

[0131] According to one or more embodiments, the at least one mineral binder F2 is selected from Portland cement, calcium aluminate cement (CAC), and calcium sulfoaluminate cement (CSA).

[0132] According to one or more embodiments, at least one mineral binder F2 comprises at least one non-hydraulic binder.

[0133] Examples of suitable non-hydraulic binders for use as at least one mineral binder F2 include weathered lime (non-hydraulic lime) and calcium sulfate. The term "calcium sulfate" should be understood to include anhydrous calcium sulfate (CaSO4), calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CaSO4·1 / 2 H2O), and calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O). Furthermore, the term "calcium sulfate hemihydrate" should be understood to include both α- and β-calcium sulfate hemihydrates. Preferred calcium sulfate includes calcium sulfate derived from REA gypsum, phosphogypsum, and natural gypsum. The term "REA gypsum" here refers to gypsum obtained in so-called flue gas desulfurization equipment.

[0134] According to one or more embodiments, at least one mineral binder F2 comprises at least one potential hydraulic binder.

[0135] In this disclosure, the term "potential hydraulic binder" refers to a Type II concrete additive that possesses the "potential hydraulic characteristics" defined in DIN EN 206-1:2000. These types of mineral binders are calcium aluminosilicates that do not harden directly or harden too slowly when mixed with water. 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 a calcium aluminosilicate hydrate phase.

[0136] Examples of suitable potential hydraulic binders for use as at least one mineral binder F2 include ground granular blast furnace slag. Ground granular blast furnace slag is typically obtained by quenching molten iron slag from a blast furnace in water or steam to form a glassy granular product, followed by drying and grinding the glassy product into a fine powder.

[0137] According to one or more embodiments, at least one mineral binder F2 comprises at least one volcanic ash binder.

[0138] The term "volcanic ash binder" in this disclosure refers to a Type II concrete additive having the "volcanic ash characteristics" as defined in DIN EN 206-1:2000. These types of mineral binders are siliceous or aluminosilicate compounds that react with water and calcium hydroxide to form calcium silicate hydrate or calcium aluminosilicate hydrate phases.

[0139] Examples of suitable volcanic ash binders for use as at least one mineral binder F2 include natural volcanic ash, such as trachytic tuff, and artificial volcanic ash, such as fly ash and silica fume. The term "fly ash" in this disclosure refers to the fine ash residue produced by the combustion of pulverized coal, which is carried away by gases emitted from a coal-fired furnace. The term "silica fume" in this disclosure refers to fine-grained silica in an amorphous form. Silica fume is typically obtained as a byproduct of silica ore processing, such as the smelting of quartz in a silica smelter, which results in the formation of silica gas, and carbon monoxide is further oxidized upon exposure to air to produce small particles of amorphous silica.

[0140] According to one or more embodiments, at least one solid particulate filler F comprises at least one synthetic organic filler F3.

[0141] Suitable synthetic organic materials for use as at least one synthetic organic filler F3 include those with a melting temperature (T) determined by DSC according to ISO 11357. m The temperature is 250°C or higher, preferably 275°C or higher, for example, polyamide, aromatic polyamide, epoxide, polystyrene, expanded polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly(phenyl ether), polysulfone and polyethersulfone.

[0142] At least one solid particle filler F preferably exists in the filled polymer layer as a single solid particle and / or as an aggregate of one or more solid particles, wherein at least a portion of the solid particles and / or aggregates are dispersed in a continuous phase comprising at least one polymer P2. The expression "dispersed in a continuous phase" should be understood to mean that the single solid particle or the aggregate of one or more solid particles is at least partially, preferably completely, surrounded by a continuous phase comprising at least one polymer P2.

[0143] According to one or more embodiments, at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 75% by weight, more preferably at least 95% by weight, even more preferably at least 99% by weight, and still more preferably at least 99.9% by weight of at least one solid particulate filler F is dispersed in a continuous phase comprising at least one polymer P2.

[0144] The filled polymer layer may additionally contain one or more 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-blocking agents, and anti-nesting agents. Based on the total weight of the filled polymer layer, the total proportion of such additives is preferably no more than 10% by weight, more preferably no more than 5% by weight, and even more preferably no more than 2.5% by weight.

[0145] According to one or more embodiments, the mass per unit area of ​​the filled polymer layer is in the range of 100-10000 g / m². 2 Preferred concentration: 150-7500 g / m 2 More preferably 200-5000 g / m 2 Even better, 250-3500 g / m 2 Even better is 300-2500g / m 2 The optimal value is 350-1500 g / m³. 2 Within the range.

[0146] The filled polymer layer can be obtained, for example, by using a first melt-processing composition comprising the components containing the filled polymer layer, which is extruded or co-extruded through an extruder die.

[0147] The first melt-processing composition is preferably obtained by melt-processing a first starting composition comprising a filler polymer layer.

[0148] The term "melt processing" in this disclosure refers to a method in which at least one molten polymer component is thoroughly mixed with at least one other component (which may be another molten polymer component or a solid component, such as a filler or a catalyst) until a melt blend is obtained, i.e., a mixture of one or more polymer components and other components that are substantially homogeneous.

[0149] The melt processing of the starting composition can be carried out in a batch process using any conventional mixer, such as a Brabender, Banbury, or roll mixer, or in a continuous process using an extruder, preferably a single-screw or twin-screw extruder or planetary roll extruder. The components of the starting composition are preferably fed into the mixer using a conventional feeding system comprising a feed hopper and a feed extruder. Alternatively, some or all of the components of the starting composition may be fed directly into the mixer as separate streams, as a premix, or as a masterbatch. Furthermore, the components of the starting composition may first be processed into pellets or granules in a compounding extruder and then fed into the mixer.

[0150] Especially when at least one solid particulate filler F contains a hydraulic binder, it is preferable that the first starting composition contains only a small amount of water. According to one or more embodiments, based on the total weight of the first starting composition, the first starting composition contains less than 10% by weight, preferably less than 7.5% by weight, more preferably less than 5% by weight, even more preferably less than 3.5% by weight, and still more preferably less than 2.5% by weight of water.

[0151] The upper main surface of the filled polymer layer facing away from the carrier layer (4, 4') can be substantially flat / smooth, such as Figure 1 As shown, or it may contain surface structures (6), which can be described as surface roughness, such as Figure 4 As shown. The term "surface roughness" refers to the non-uniformity of a surface, which can be quantified, for example, by using two-dimensional (2D) surface roughness parameters as defined in ISO 4287 and / or three-dimensional (3D) surface roughness parameters as defined in ISO 25178.

[0152] Such a surface structure can improve the ability of the filled polymer layer (i.e., the functional layer) to bond with the fresh cementitious composition after hardening. The improved bond can be caused by the increased surface area of ​​the filled polymer layer, which leads to an increased number of molecular interactions between the surfaces of the fresh cementitious composition and the filled polymer layer compared to a filled polymer layer with a smooth surface.

[0153] A filled polymer layer with a surface structure can be obtained, for example, by using a foaming extrusion process, which includes the step of extruding or co-extruding a first melt processing composition containing the components of the filled polymer layer and a foaming gas through an extruder die. Alternatively, a filled polymer layer with a smooth surface produced without foaming extrusion can also undergo mechanical surface treatment steps, such as grinding, brushing, and sandblasting, to produce the desired surface structure.

[0154] When the first melt-processing composition contains foaming gas, the melt-formed layer (i.e., the extruded profile) exiting from the extruder die first expands due to the increase in the volume of the foaming gas, resulting in the formation of a closed chamber structure. Eventually, one or more surfaces of the melt-formed layer are penetrated by the still-expanding foaming gas, resulting in the formation of open or semi-open chambers, holes, cavities, and other surface defects, which can be described as "surface structures".

[0155] Physical and chemical foaming agents can be used to provide foaming gas to the first melt-processing composition. Preferably, a chemical foaming agent is added to the first starting composition, and then the foaming gas is generated during the melt processing of the first starting composition. Preferably, a physical foaming agent is added directly to the first melt-processing composition before it is extruded through an extruder die.

[0156] Suitable physical blowing agents include gaseous and liquid physical blowing agents. Liquid physical blowing agents include volatile liquids that produce gas through evaporation. Suitable liquid physical blowing agents typically include water, such as short-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons having 5 to 7 carbon atoms and their halogenated, particularly chlorinated and fluorinated derivatives. Particularly suitable liquid physical blowing agents have a standard boiling point not exceeding 250°C, preferably not exceeding 200°C, measured at 1 bar pressure. The standard boiling point of a liquid physical blowing agent can be measured using a boiling point meter. Gaseous physical blowing agents, such as compressed nitrogen or carbon dioxide, can be injected directly under high pressure into the polymer melt conveyed through melt processing equipment, such as an extruder barrel.

[0157] Chemical blowing agents, also known as chemical foaming agents, are typically solids that release one or more gases through chemical reactions, such as decomposition, when exposed to elevated temperatures. Inorganic, organic, exothermic, and endothermic chemical blowing agents are all applicable. Endothermic blowing agents may be preferred over exothermic ones because the latter have been found to potentially trigger respiratory sensitivities and are generally unsafe or pose an explosion risk from a toxicological perspective. Furthermore, the decomposition of exothermic blowing agents releases byproducts such as ammonia, formamide, formaldehyde, or nitrosamines, and these substances have been classified as hazardous.

[0158] In the case of a foam extrusion process, the first starting composition preferably contains at least one chemical foaming agent, CBA.

[0159] Suitable substances for use as at least one chemical foaming agent (CBA) include, for example, azodicarbonamide, azobisisobutyronitrile, azocyclohexylnitrile, dinitrosopentamethylenetetramine, azodiaminobenzene, calcium azide, 4,4′-diphenyldisulfonyl azide, benzenesulfonyl hydrazine, 4,4-oxybenzenesulfonylaminourea, 4,4-oxobis(benzenesulfonyl hydrazine), diphenyl sulfone-3,3-disulfonyl hydrazine, p-toluenesulfonyl hydrazine, p-toluenesulfonylaminourea, trihydrazine triazine, N,N′-dimethyl-N,N′-dinitrosoterephthalamide, diazoaminobenzene, diazoaminotoluene, hydrazyldicarbonamide, barium azodicarbonate, 5-hydroxytetrazole, sodium bicarbonate, ammonium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, and organic acids.

[0160] Suitable organic acids for use as at least one chemical foaming agent (CBA) include, for example, monocarboxylic acids, such as acetic acid and propionic acid, solid polycarboxylic acids, such as solid hydroxyl-functionalized or unsaturated dicarboxylic acids, tricarboxylic acids, tetracarboxylic acids or polycarboxylic acids, particularly citric acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, fumaric acid and maleic acid.

[0161] Although some compounds used in this invention are described as being suitable for specific functions, their use is not limited to those functions. For example, some of the substances described above as chemical blowing agents can also be used as activators of at least one chemical blowing agent CBA.

[0162] For example, common activators used in organic acid-based chemical foaming agents include hydrogencarbonate and carbonate, especially those of the formula XHCO3 or X2CO3, where X represents a general cation, such as Na. + K + NH4 + ½ Zn 2+ ½ Mg 2+ and ½ Ca 2+ Especially Na + and K + On the other hand, these types of activators are themselves suitable for use as at least one chemical foaming agent (CBA).

[0163] According to one or more embodiments, at least one chemical foaming agent CBA is selected from bicarbonate of formula XHCO3 and carbonate of formula X2CO3, wherein X represents a general cation, particularly Na. + K + NH4 + ½ Zn 2+ ½ Mg 2+ or ½ Ca 2+ Preferably, the bicarbonate is selected from the formula XHCO3, where X represents a general cation, especially Na. + K + NH4 + ½ Zn 2+ ½ Mg 2+ or ½ Ca 2+ More preferably, sodium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate are selected.

[0164] According to one or more embodiments, the at least one chemical blowing agent CBA has a maximum decomposition peak temperature of 85-225°C, preferably 95-215°C, more preferably 105-205°C, and even more preferably 115-195°C, as measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The maximum decomposition peak measured by DSC is preferably determined by using a DSC822e differential scanning calorimeter from Mettler-Toledo by: holding the sample at 25°C for 2 minutes, then heating the sample from 25°C to 280°C at a rate of 5°C / min, then holding the sample at 280°C for 2 minutes, and finally cooling the sample from 280°C to 25°C at a rate of 10°C / min.

[0165] According to one or more embodiments, the at least one chemical foaming agent CBA is present in the starting composition in the form of solid particles, the median particle size d of the solid particles. 50The range is 0.5-100 μm, preferably 1.0-75 μm, more preferably 2.5-50 μm, and even more preferably 5-35 μm.

[0166] If used, the proportion of at least one chemical foaming agent CBA is preferably no more than 3.5% by weight of the total weight of the first starting composition, more preferably no more than 2.5% by weight, even more preferably no more than 2% by weight, and even more preferably no more than 1.5% by weight.

[0167] Preferably, if used, the proportion of at least one chemical blowing agent CBA is at least 0.05% by weight, preferably at least 0.1% by weight, and more preferably at least 0.15% by weight of the total weight of the first starting composition. According to one or more embodiments, the proportion of at least one chemical blowing agent CBA is 0.01-2.5% by weight, preferably 0.1-2.0% by weight, more preferably 0.15-1.5% by weight, even more preferably 0.25-1.25% by weight, and still more preferably 0.35-1.25% by weight of the total weight of the first starting composition.

[0168] The preferred extrusion temperature depends on the embodiment of the filled polymer layer, and in particular on the type of at least one polymer P2. The term "extrusion temperature" refers to the temperature of the extruded composition at the die exit. According to one or more embodiments, the extrusion temperature is in the range of 100-250°C, preferably 120-240°C, more preferably 125-220°C, and even more preferably 135-200°C.

[0169] The preferred extrusion pressure depends on the implementation of the filled polymer layer, particularly on the type of at least one polymer P2 and the amount of at least one solid particulate filler F in the first starting composition. The term "extrusion pressure" refers to the pressure of the composition at the end of the metering zone just before it enters the die inlet.

[0170] According to one or more embodiments, the extrusion pressure is in the range of 20-350 bar, preferably 30-240 bar, more preferably 35-200 bar, and even more preferably 40-130 bar.

[0171] Furthermore, when the first melt processing composition contains foaming gas, the extruder preferably operates with one or more venting units closed. Importantly, at least a substantial portion of the foaming gas released within the extruder barrel remains trapped in the first melt polymer composition and is not released before exiting the extruder die.

[0172] When the functional layer is a filled polymer layer, the sealing device bonded to each other in step II) of the method is preferably obtained by co-extruding a first melt-processed composition containing the components of the filled polymer layer and a second melt-processed composition containing the components of the carrier layer through an extruder die.

[0173] The extrusion of the first melt-processed composition and the second melt-processed composition can be carried out using an extrusion apparatus comprising two extruders and a common die.

[0174] Such extrusion equipment is well known to those skilled in the art. A suitable extruder includes a barrel and a screw unit or plunger contained within the barrel. Any conventional extruder can be used, such as a plunger extruder, a single-screw extruder, or a twin-screw extruder. Preferably, the extruder is a screw extruder, more preferably a twin-screw extruder. The screw unit of a conventional screw extruder is generally considered to include a feed section, a transition section, and a metering section. In the feed section, the thermoplastic composition enters the passage of the rotating screw and is conveyed toward the transition section, where the composition is compressed and melted. The composition should be completely melted when it leaves the transition section. The function of the metering section is to homogenize the molten composition and allow it to be metered or pumped out at a constant rate. The extrusion equipment also includes a die, preferably a flat die, which consists of a manifold, a channel, and a lip region. In the case of a co-extrusion process, the extrusion equipment preferably includes at least two extruders, preferably twin-screw extruders, and a single or multi-manifold die.

[0175] According to one or more other embodiments, the functional layer includes or is a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) layer.

[0176] The term "pressure-sensitive adhesive" in this disclosure refers to a viscoelastic material that adheres immediately to virtually any kind of substrate by applying slight pressure and is permanently adhesive.

[0177] Suitable pressure-sensitive adhesives for contact layers include adhesives based on styrene block copolymers, amorphous polyolefins (APO), amorphous polyalphaolefins (APAO), vinyl ether polymers, and elastomers such as styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, butyl rubber, polyisoprene, polybutadiene, natural rubber, chloroprene rubber, ethylene propylene rubber (EPR), nitrile rubber, acrylic rubber, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) rubber, and silicone rubber.

[0178] In addition to the polymers mentioned above, suitable pressure-sensitive adhesives typically contain one or more other components, including, for example, tackifying resins, waxes, and additives such as UV light absorbers, UV and heat stabilizers, fluorescent whitening agents, pigments, dyes, and drying agents.

[0179] The term "tackifying resin" in this disclosure refers to a resin that generally enhances the adhesion and / or tackiness of an adhesive composition. The term "tackiness" in this disclosure refers to the property of a substance to be tacky or adhesive upon simple contact. Tackiness can be measured, for example, as a ring-shaped fast bond. Preferred tackifying resins tackify at a temperature of 25°C. Examples of suitable tackifying resins include natural resins, synthetic resins, and chemically modified natural resins.

[0180] Examples of suitable natural resins and chemically modified natural resins include rosin, rosin esters, phenol-modified rosin esters, and terpene resins. The term "rosin" should be understood to include gum rosin, wood rosin, tall oil rosin, distilled rosin, and modified rosin, such as any dimerized, hydrogenated, maleized, and / or polymerized forms of these rosins.

[0181] Suitable terpene resins include copolymers and terpolymers of natural terpenes, such as styrene / terpene and α-methylstyrene / terpene resins; polyterpene resins, which are typically obtained by polymerizing terpenes, such as bicyclic monoterpenes called pinene, at moderately low temperatures in the presence of Friedel-Crafts catalysts; hydrogenated polyterpene resins; and phenol-modified terpene resins including their hydrogenated derivatives.

[0182] The term "synthetic resin" refers to a compound obtained by a controlled chemical reaction between well-defined reactants that do not themselves possess resin characteristics, such as addition polymerization or condensation polymerization.

[0183] Monomers polymerizable to synthesize synthetic resins may include aliphatic monomers, alicyclic monomers, aromatic monomers, or mixtures thereof. Aliphatic monomers may include C4, C5, and C6 alkanes, alkenes, and conjugated dienes. Examples of aliphatic or alicyclic monomers include butadiene, isobutene, 1,3-pentadiene, 1,4-pentadiene, cyclopentane, 1-pentene, 2-pentene, 2-methyl-1-pentene, 2-methyl-2-butene, 2-methyl-2-pentene, isoprene, cyclohexane, 1,3-hexadiene, 1,4-hexadiene, cyclopentadiene, dicyclopentadiene, and terpenes. Aromatic monomers may include C8, C9, and C6 alkanes. 10 Aromatic monomers. Examples of aromatic monomers include styrene, indene, styrene derivatives, indene derivatives, coumarones, and combinations thereof.

[0184] Particularly suitable synthetic resins include synthetic hydrocarbon resins made by polymerizing mixtures of unsaturated monomers obtained as byproducts of cracking natural gas liquids, gas oils, or petroleum naphtha. Synthetic hydrocarbon resins obtained from petroleum-based feedstocks are referred to herein as "hydrocarbon resins" or "petroleum hydrocarbon resins." These also include pure monomeric aromatic resins made by polymerizing aromatic monomer feedstocks that have been purified to remove color-causing contaminants and precisely control the composition of the product. Hydrocarbon resins typically have a relatively low average molecular weight (M). nFor example, in the range of 250-5000 g / mol, and with a glass transition temperature (the peak value of the loss modulus (G″) curve measured by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) using an applied frequency of 1 Hz and a strain level of 0.1%) above 0 °C, preferably equal to or above 15 °C, more preferably equal to or above 30 °C.

[0185] Examples of suitable hydrocarbon resins include C5 aliphatic hydrocarbon resins, mixed C5 / C9 aliphatic / aromatic hydrocarbon resins, aromatically modified C5 aliphatic hydrocarbon resins, alicyclic hydrocarbon resins, mixed C5 aliphatic / alicyclic hydrocarbon resins, mixed C9 aromatic / alicyclic hydrocarbon resins, mixed C5 aliphatic / alicyclic / C9 aromatic hydrocarbon resins, aromatically modified alicyclic hydrocarbon resins, C9 aromatic hydrocarbon resins, copolymers and terpolymers of polyterpene resins and natural terpenes, and hydrogenated forms of the aforementioned hydrocarbon resins. The symbols “C5” and “C9” indicate that the monomers used to prepare the resin are primarily hydrocarbons having 4-6 and 8-10 carbon atoms, respectively. The term “hydrogenated” includes fully, substantially, and at least partially hydrogenated resins. Partially hydrogenated resins may have, for example, hydrogenation levels of 50%, 70%, or 90%.

[0186] Suitable hydrocarbon resins are commercially available, for example, under the trade names Wingtack® series, Wingtack® Plus, Wingtack® Extra and Wingtack® STS (all from Cray Valley); under the trade names Escorez® 1000 series, Escorez® 2000 series and Escorez® 5000 series (all from Exxon MobileChemical); under the trade names Novares® T series, Novares® TT series, Novares® TD series, Novares® TL series, Novares® TN series, Novares® TK series and Novares® TV series (all from RÜTGERS Novares GmbH); and under the trade names Kristalex®, Plastolyn®, Piccotex®, Piccolastic® and Endex® (all from Eastman Chemicals).

[0187] Preferably, the water-stop strip obtained by using the method of the present invention meets the general requirements for water-stop strips used to seal expansion, contraction, or construction joints in concrete structures, and in particular the requirements defined in the following standards:

[0188] DIN 18541 Parts 1 and 2; BS 903 and BS 2571; CRD-C 572-74, ASTM D 412-75 and ASTM D 638; and DIN 18195:2017-07, DIN 18197:2018-01 and DIN 7865:2015-02.

[0189] Another aspect of the invention is a method for sealing the internal joint between two sections of concrete, the method comprising the steps of: providing a water-retaining strip using a production method according to the invention, and casting first and second sections of concrete, such that:

[0190] - The first side of the water-blocking strip is embedded in the first section of concrete.

[0191] - The second side of the water-blocking strip is embedded in the second section of the concrete, and

[0192] - The center of the water-blocking strip is placed in the joint formed between the first and second cast concrete sections.

[0193] The first and second sections of concrete can form part of any structure or civil engineering structure to be sealed against moisture and water, such as above-ground or underground structures, such as buildings, garages, tunnels, landfills, reservoirs, ponds, or dams.

[0194] The details of the method depend on the type of joint to be sealed, particularly if the joint is an expansion joint, shrinkage joint, or construction joint. According to one or more embodiments, a method for sealing an internal joint between two sections of concrete includes the following steps:

[0195] i) Place water-blocking strips so that the center of the water-blocking strips is positioned between the upper and lower parts of the split mold shell.

[0196] ii) Optionally, the first side of the water-blocking strip is fixed to one or more reinforcing bars.

[0197] iii) The first section of concrete is poured, so that the first side of the water-retaining strip is embedded in the concrete, and

[0198] iv) Pour the second section of concrete so that the second side of the water-retaining strip is embedded in the concrete.

[0199] Another subject of the present invention is a method for sealing an external joint between two sections of concrete, the method comprising the following steps:

[0200] I) Provides a water-blocking strip obtained by using the production method of the water-blocking strip of the present invention.

[0201] II) Place the water-retaining strip onto the base on which concrete will be poured.

[0202] III) The first and second sections of the concrete pouring are such that:

[0203] - The center of the water-retaining strip is located in or along the joint formed between the concrete casting sections.

[0204] - The top surface of the first side of the water-retaining strip forms a bond with the surface of the first section of concrete, and

[0205] - The top surface of the second side of the water-blocking strip forms a bond with the surface of the second section of concrete.

[0206] Another aspect of the invention is a sealing structure comprising two sections of concrete, a gap between the concrete sections, and a water barrier strip located at the joint, obtained by means of a water barrier strip production method according to the invention, wherein a first side of the water barrier strip is bonded to the first section of concrete, the center of the profile is located in or along the gap, and a second side of the water barrier strip is bonded to the second section of concrete.

[0207] According to one or more embodiments, a first side of the water barrier is embedded in a first section of concrete, and a second side of the water barrier is embedded in a second section of concrete, wherein the center of the profile is located in the gap.

[0208] According to one or more other embodiments, the center of the water barrier is located in or along the joint formed between concrete sections, the top surface of the first side of the water barrier is bonded to the surface of the first concrete section, and the top surface of the second side of the water barrier is bonded to the surface of the second concrete section.

[0209] According to one or more embodiments, a sealing structure is obtained by using an internal joint between two sections of the sealing concrete of the present invention or by using an external joint between two sections of the sealing concrete of the present invention.

[0210] Example

[0211] Preparation of water-blocking strips

[0212] The water-blocking strip material of the present invention is produced by heat laminating two SikaProof A+ waterproof membranes (obtained from Sika Schweiz AG) together.

[0213] A single layer of Sika Waterbar FB-125 (obtained from Sika Schweiz AG) was used as the reference water-bar material.

[0214] Preparation of concrete test specimens

[0215] Cut two sample strips with dimensions of 200 mm (length) × 50 mm (width) from the water-blocking strip material obtained as described above. Place the sample strips into a mold shell with dimensions of 200 mm (length) × 50 mm (width) × 30 mm (height).

[0216] One edge of each sample strip is covered with adhesive tape 50 mm long and the same width as the strip to prevent adhesion to hardened concrete. The adhesive tape facilitates mounting of the test specimens onto the peel resistance testing equipment.

[0217] To prepare concrete samples, a batch of fresh concrete mix was prepared. The fresh concrete mix was obtained by mixing 8.9900 kg of MC 0.45 dry batch concrete conforming to EN1766, 0.7440 kg of water, and 0.0110 kg of Viscocrete 3082 in a tumble mixer for five minutes. The MC 0.45 dry batch concrete contained 1.6811 kg of CEM I 42.5 N cement (Normo 4, Holcim), 7.3089 kg of aggregate, which contained 3% Nekafill-15 (from KFN) concrete additive (limestone filler), 24% sand with a particle size of 0–1 mm, 36% sand with a particle size of 1–4 mm, and 37% gravel with a particle size of 4–8 mm. The dry batch concrete was homogenized in a tumble mixer for 5 minutes before being mixed with water and Viscocrete 3082.

[0218] The mold containing the sample strip was then filled with fresh concrete mix and vibrated for two minutes to release trapped air. After curing for 24 hours in a standard atmosphere (air temperature 23°C, relative humidity 50%), the test concrete sample was peeled off the mold and the peel resistance was measured.

[0219] Concrete peeling resistance

[0220] Peel resistance was measured according to the procedures listed in standard DIN EN 1372:2015-06. Peel resistance was measured using a Zwick Roell AllroundLine Z010 material testing apparatus equipped with a Zwick Roell 90° peel unit (model 316237).

[0221] In the peel resistance measurement, the concrete specimen is held in the upper clamp of the material testing equipment for a length of 10 mm at the end (including the portion of the adhesive tape on the sample strip). The strip is then peeled from the surface of the concrete specimen at a peel angle of 90° and a constant beam speed of 100 mm / min. During the measurement, the roller distance is approximately 570 mm. Peeling of the sample strip continues until approximately 140 mm of strip is peeled from the surface of the concrete specimen. The peel resistance value is calculated as the average peel force per width of the sample strip [N / 50 mm] during the peeling of approximately 70 mm, thus excluding the first and last quarter of the total peel length from the calculation.

[0222] The average peel resistance presented in Table 2 has been calculated as the average of two measurements taken with the same sample strip.

[0223] Tensile strength and elongation at break

[0224] Tensile strength and elongation at break (MD, CD) were measured at normal room temperature using a Zwick tensile testing apparatus and a crosshead speed of 100 mm / min, according to method A or B of EN 12311-2 standard.

[0225] Table 2

[0226] MD = Vertical, CD = Horizontal

Claims

1. A method for producing a water-blocking strip (1), comprising the following steps: I) Provides first and second sealing elements (2, 3), each sealing element (2, 3) comprising a carrier layer (4, 4') and a functional layer (5, 5'), the carrier layer (4, 4') comprising at least one polymer P1 and having an upper main surface and a lower main surface, the functional layer (5, 5') covering at least a portion of the upper main surface of the carrier layer (4, 4'), and II) Bond the first and second sealing elements (2, 3) together such that their carrier layers (4, 4') are directly or indirectly connected to each other on at least a portion of their opposing lower main surfaces. The functional layers (5, 5') of the first and second sealing elements (2, 3) are effectively bonded to the fresh cement-based composition cast thereon and allowed to harden.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein step II) is performed by thermally or adhesively laminating the lower main surface of the carrier layer (4) of the first sealing element (2) to at least a portion of the lower main surface of the carrier layer (4') of the second sealing element (3).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the first and second sealing elements (2, 3) further comprises a reinforcing layer (7, 7') fully embedded in the carrier layer (4, 4') or located between the carrier layer (4, 4') and the functional layer (5, 5').

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising the step of providing a reinforcing layer (8), wherein step II) of the method is performed such that the reinforcing layer (8) is sandwiched between the carrier layers (4, 4) of the first and second sealing elements (2, 3).

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier layer (4, 4') comprises at least 35% by weight, preferably at least 50% by weight, of at least one polymer P1, preferably selected from ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, polyolefin, halogenated polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride, rubber and ketene vinyl ester.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the functional layer (5, 5') is selected from the fiber material layer, the filled polymer layer, the bitumen-based layer, and the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the functional layer (5, 5') is a filled polymer layer comprising: a) 25-75% by weight, preferably 35-70% by weight, of at least one polymer P2, and b) 15-65% by weight, preferably 25-60% by weight, of at least one solid particulate filler F.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the at least one polymer P2 is selected from ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, polyolefins, halogenated polyolefins, polyvinyl chloride, rubber and ketene vinyl esters, preferably selected from ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, polyolefins and polyvinyl chloride.

9. The method according to any one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the at least one polymer P2 comprises at least one ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer P21.

10. The method according to any one of claims 7-9, wherein the at least one solid particulate filler F is selected from inert mineral fillers, mineral binders and synthetic organic fillers.

11. The method according to any one of claims 6-10, wherein the filled polymer layer is obtained by extruding or co-extruding a first melt-processed composition containing the components of the filled polymer layer through an extruder die.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the first melt processing composition comprises a foaming gas, the foaming gas being released by the first melt processing initiation composition through one or more surfaces of the extruded profile exiting from the extruder die.

13. The method of claim 11 or 12, wherein the first melt-processing composition is obtained by melt-processing a first starting composition, the first starting composition comprising the components of the filled polymer layer and at least one additional chemical foaming agent CBA.

14. A method for sealing the internal joint between two sections of concrete, the method comprising the following steps: By providing the water-retaining strip using the method according to any one of the preceding claims, and by casting the first and second sections of concrete, such that: - The first side of the water-blocking strip is embedded in the first section of concrete. - The second side of the water-blocking strip is embedded in the second section of the concrete, and - The center of the water-blocking strip is placed in the joint formed between the first and second cast concrete sections.

15. A method for sealing the external joint between two sections of concrete, the method comprising the following steps: I) A water-blocking strip provided using the method according to any one of claims 1-13, II) Place the water-retaining strip onto the base on which concrete will be poured. III) The first and second sections of the concrete pouring are such that: - The center of the water-retaining strip is located in or along the joint formed between the cast concrete sections. - The top surface of the first side of the water-retaining strip forms a bond with the surface of the first section of concrete, and - The top surface of the second side of the water-blocking strip forms a bond with the surface of the second section of concrete.

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