System for preventing water leaks in roof panels through capillary action control

Abstract

A system for preventing water leaks in concrete roof slabs by controlling capillary action, wherein the system comprises the following: a variety of capillary barrier inserts configured to be embedded in a concrete slab during casting, each insert comprising the following: a vapor-permeable, liquid-impermeable lower membrane made of a polymeric microporous material, configured to allow vapor diffusion while resisting the penetration of liquid water; a hydrophobic capillary interruption matrix arranged above the lower membrane and consisting of a discontinuous aggregate mixture bonded with a surface-modified hydrophobic silane-siloxane treatment, wherein the matrix has irregular cavities to interrupt continuous capillary water pathways; a multitude of passively swelling gel capsules arranged within the matrix and encapsulated in semi-permeable polymer bags, the capsules being configured to expand volumetrically upon contact with water in order to physically block the migration pathways of moisture; an upper sacrificial porosity zone consisting of a layer of lightweight concrete or aerated mortar with high pore connectivity and moisture buffering capacity, arranged above the capillary interruption matrix and in direct contact with the structural concrete above; a rigid, chemically inert structural frame made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) enclosing the layers, the frame having mechanical interlocks and lateral seals adapted to form a continuous, mosaic-like sealing field across the panel when installed in a tiled configuration; When embedded in the plate, the system forms a multi-layered, capillary-breaking and vapor-permeable assembly that passively prevents water leaks by interrupting, hindering and redirecting water migration through capillary action.

Description

Field of invention:

[0001] The present invention relates to the construction industry and, in particular, to sealing systems integrated into building panels. Specifically, the invention relates to a system and an associated device for preventing water leaks in roof panels by controlling and interrupting capillary action within and across the concrete matrix. This improves the long-term sealing of civil structures exposed to atmospheric and seasonal water exposure. Background of the invention:

[0002] Water leaks in concrete roof slabs remain a widespread problem in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, particularly in regions with high rainfall or temperature fluctuations. The ingress of water through tiny pores, cracks, and voids, largely due to capillary action, leads to structural deterioration, corrosion of embedded reinforcement, microbial growth, and numerous maintenance issues. Traditionally, external waterproofing membranes, sealants, surface coatings, and polymer coatings have been used to mitigate this problem. However, these approaches are predominantly superficial and often wear out over time due to UV exposure, thermal fatigue, and mechanical abrasion. Furthermore, many of these surface-applied solutions fail to address the underlying mechanism of water ingress—capillary action within the concrete microstructure.

[0003] Various state-of-the-art solutions attempt to incorporate hydrophobic additives or crystallization compounds during concrete mixing. While these reduce initial permeability, they do not react dynamically to fluctuating moisture content and do not prevent long-term microcracking due to shrinkage and settling. Furthermore, repairing water ingress after concreting is often associated with considerable labor and expense and generally requires demolition and reapplication of protective layers. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an integrated system that considers capillary action at both the material and structural levels and enables a permanent, self-regulating, and verifiable reduction of water migration through roof slabs.

[0004] Concrete roof tiles are a standard element in modern construction due to their structural efficiency and ease of manufacture. However, they are inherently porous and susceptible to water leakage through capillary action. This phenomenon, in which water migrates through microscopic pores and cracks in the concrete matrix due to surface tension and adhesive forces, contributes significantly to moisture-related building deterioration. Over time, water penetrating roof tiles can lead to efflorescence, corrosion of reinforcing bars, delamination of surface layers, fungal growth, and thermal inefficiencies. Capillary action is particularly problematic in climates with frequent rainfall, high humidity, or large temperature fluctuations, as moisture can repeatedly penetrate and evaporate from the tile, exacerbating material fatigue and weakening its structural integrity.The intrinsic porosity of concrete, combined with environmental stresses, poses a constant risk of leakage, which often manifests itself long after construction work has been completed, making retrofitting costly and disruptive.

[0005] The conventional solution for water leaks in concrete slabs involves the use of surface-applied waterproofing membranes, typically rolled or sprayed onto the roof after pouring. These membranes can be made of bitumen, polyurethane, polyurea, or other elastomeric compounds. While these systems initially prevent water from penetrating the surface, they are susceptible to damage from UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, mechanical abrasion, and improper application. Cracking, blistering, and delamination of the membranes are common problems that arise within a few years of installation, especially if the roof is used as a terrace or subject to pedestrian traffic and thermal expansion. Furthermore, these membranes primarily form a physical barrier on the outside of the slab and do not counteract water movement within the concrete mass itself.Once a tear occurs in the membrane, water can easily penetrate through the interconnected capillary pores of the concrete, leading to hidden damage that is difficult to detect until the damage becomes visually or structurally apparent.

[0006] Another commonly used method is the application of chemical admixtures or integral sealants added to the concrete mix during slab casting. These can include hydrophobic additives such as silanes or crystalline growth compounds that seal the pores in the concrete by forming insoluble crystals upon contact with water. While these admixtures improve initial resistance to water permeability, they do not provide a long-term dynamic response to fluctuating moisture exposure or the microcracks that typically develop over the structure's lifetime due to drying shrinkage, temperature gradients, or differential settlement. Furthermore, their performance often depends on a uniform mix, correct dosage, and consistent distribution within the concrete matrix.Any inconsistency in the mixture or poor compaction can lead to weak points where capillary channels remain active. Furthermore, these integral solutions are unable to adapt or self-repair once a leak path has formed, making them more of a passive safeguard than an active control mechanism.

[0007] Surface coatings such as epoxy paints, acrylic-based sealants, or cementitious, polymer-modified mortars are also commonly used for waterproofing. These coatings are generally applied after the board has cured and often require a clean, dry, and primed surface for optimal adhesion. In practice, however, contamination, residual moisture, or poor curing often leads to reduced adhesion, microblistering, or peeling. Furthermore, such coatings are generally rigid and prone to cracking under bending or thermal stress, especially when the substrate board expands, contracts, or settles. Once the coating cracks, water can seep underneath and migrate laterally through the pores of the board, making the damage invisible until it becomes irreparable.Furthermore, coatings often require maintenance and reapplication, and they are sensitive to construction schedules and weather conditions during application, which makes operation even more complex.

[0008] Prefabricated waterproofing membranes, such as EPDM rubber sheets, HDPE rolls, or PVC-based linings, are another commonly used solution, particularly in high-rise or industrial construction. These systems are typically applied over a primed slab or beneath screed layers and rely heavily on expert installation, joint sealing, and mechanical anchoring. Any errors in alignment, overlaps, or penetration details can create weak points through which water can penetrate. Furthermore, installing such membranes requires skilled workmanship, site preparation, and careful protection during the construction phase to prevent punctures, creases, or displacement. Additionally, these membranes do not integrate into the internal capillary system of the concrete; that is, they serve only as external protection, not as an internal deterrent mechanism.Over time, these membranes can suffer from chemical degradation, loss of flexibility, or root penetration in green roofs, which impairs their long-term reliability.

[0009] Modern approaches are attempting to introduce smart materials such as self-healing concrete. This type of concrete contains encapsulated healing agents like bacteria, epoxy resin, or mineral precursors that react when cracks form. While these innovations are promising, they are expensive, not yet widely used, and often require very specific environmental conditions for activation. Furthermore, the healing process is limited to smaller cracks and cannot completely seal larger cracks or through-flow leaks. Their integration into routine construction practice remains limited due to the need for specialized materials, proprietary formulations, and the lack of standardized testing methods to quantify their effectiveness over extended periods.

[0010] Another novel approach utilizes drainage systems such as inverted roofs or cavity drainage membranes, which passively channel water away from the slab into designated channels. While these systems divert the water, they do not prevent capillary action within the slab itself. Although this strategy can protect surfaces and interiors, it does little to halt the slow and inevitable dampening of the underlying structural slab, which remains susceptible to long-term damage. Furthermore, these systems require additional space, precise slope alignment, and drainage outlets, making them impractical for many building types.

[0011] Despite all these technologies, most existing waterproofing solutions have a significant limitation: they focus on surface protection and reactive maintenance. Few, if any, target the capillary transport mechanism within the concrete's microstructure—the actual pathway by which water moves. Capillary action is not merely a passive phenomenon, but an extremely persistent mode of water transport driven by adhesion and cohesion forces, capable of carrying moisture upwards even against gravity. Conventional solutions that neglect this mechanism are inherently incomplete, as they cannot prevent water from finding alternative pathways through the interconnected pore network, particularly under negative hydrostatic pressure or cyclical wetting and drying conditions.

[0012] Furthermore, most waterproofing techniques are either purely external or internal, but not integrated at the interface between structural and environmental dynamics. They are designed as separate layers rather than embedded components of the slab structure, making them susceptible to interface failures. Maintaining these systems often requires destructive testing or invasive repairs, which are both time-consuming and expensive. Finally, existing technologies rarely provide real-time insights into moisture conditions within the slab, so water ingress is often detected late, frequently only when visible signs such as ceiling dampness, condensation, or efflorescence appear.

[0013] There is an urgent need for a system that not only prevents water movement through capillary action but also dynamically interrupts it, preferably at multiple points across the cross-section of the panel. Such a system must be robust enough to withstand the stresses of the structure, resistant to environmental influences, and operate passively without an external power supply or ongoing maintenance. Ideally, it would also offer optional real-time monitoring for predictive maintenance and early detection. An embedded system that controls capillary action within the core structure of the panel overcomes the limitations of existing solutions and represents a transformative approach: moving away from surface dependency towards intrinsic capillary interruption. Summary of the invention:

[0014] The present invention provides a system for preventing water leaks in roof panels by actively controlling and interrupting capillary action. The system combines a multi-layered structural device integrated into the panel with an embedded network of capillary-interrupting materials and vapor-permeable channels. The aim is to introduce mechanical and chemical interruptions into the capillary pathways, thereby limiting water movement under surface tension. The invention aims to improve the moisture barrier capacity of panels, enable real-time monitoring of water migration, and provide adaptive expansion interfaces to accommodate internal stresses. A further objective is to provide a scalable and modular solution that is compatible with conventional RCC (reinforced concrete) panel casting processes without compromising structural integrity.

[0015] The main objective of the present invention is to provide an integrated system for preventing water leaks in roof slabs by selectively controlling capillary action within the concrete structure. The invention aims to interrupt, redirect, and neutralize water migration through the microscopic pores and cracks of the slab using a combination of mechanical, chemical, and reactive materials embedded during construction. The goal is to offer a self-contained, passively functioning solution that requires no external energy or post-installation maintenance, thus ensuring long-term durability and protection against water ingress.Another goal is to create a system that can be seamlessly integrated into standard slab casting processes and is compatible with existing building materials and reinforcement arrangements without compromising structural strength or significantly increasing construction costs.

[0016] Another important objective of the invention is the introduction of a multifunctional capillary interruption system that not only blocks water migration but also facilitates moisture diffusion in vapor form, thereby reducing internal condensation and hydrostatic pressure build-up. The system is designed to react in stages: initial barriers interrupt capillary continuity, while secondary components, such as swelling gel capsules, dynamically block residual moisture movement. A further objective of the invention is modular scalability, allowing multiple units of the system to be interconnected and adapted to different panel geometries, sizes, and conditions. Another objective is the integration of real-time monitoring into the system through integrated sensor nodes, which provide predictive insights into the panel's moisture conditions and enable proactive maintenance.

[0017] The invention aims to overcome the disadvantages of conventional sealing systems that rely solely on surface coatings, external membranes, or chemical additives by introducing a capillary control system that operates within the panel matrix. The goal is to develop a durable sealing solution that retains its functionality for decades under environmental exposure without being affected by UV radiation, mechanical wear, or thermal fatigue. Furthermore, the invention aims to reduce the need for skilled workers and minimize errors in the manual application of conventional sealing systems. This increases the reliability and uniformity of protection across the entire roof surface. The objective of this invention is a paradigm shift in panel sealing, moving from a reactive, surface-based treatment to a proactive, embedded, and intelligent capillary disruption system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will be better understood if the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which the same symbols consistently represent the same parts. The following applies: Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a system for preventing water leaks in roof panels by capillary action control.

[0019] Experts will also recognize that the elements in the drawing are shown for the sake of simplicity and are not necessarily to scale. For example, the flowcharts illustrate the process by highlighting the main steps to enhance understanding of the aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, with regard to the design of the device, one or more components of the device may be represented in the drawing by conventional symbols, and the drawing may show only the specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of this disclosure, so as not to clutter the drawing with details that are readily apparent to those skilled in the art after reading this description. Detailed description of the invention

[0020] For a better understanding of the inventive principles, reference is made below to the embodiment shown in the drawing, which is described in specific terminology. However, this does not limit the scope of the invention. Changes and further modifications of the illustrated system, as well as further applications of the inventive principles, are possible, as would normally occur to a person skilled in the art in the field of invention.

[0021] It is clear to the person skilled in the art that the preceding general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended as a limitation of it.

[0022] References in this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect”, or similar expressions mean that a particular feature, structure, or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, occurrences of the expressions “in one embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar expressions in this specification may all refer to the same embodiment, but need not.

[0023] The terms "includes," "include," or other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that includes a list of steps may not only contain those steps but may also include other steps not expressly listed or inherent in such process or method. Likewise, the statement "includes..." in the case of one or more devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components does not, without further limitations, preclude the existence of other devices, subsystems, elements, structures, components, or additional devices, subsystems, elements, structures, or components.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art in the field of the invention. The system, methods, and examples provided here serve only for illustration and are not to be construed as a limitation.

[0025] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing.

[0026] In the Fig.Figure 100 is a block diagram of a system for preventing water leakage in roof slabs by controlling capillary action. The system comprises: several capillary barrier inserts (102) embedded in a concrete slab during casting. Each insert includes: a vapor-permeable, liquid-impermeable lower membrane (104) made of microporous polymer material that allows vapor diffusion but resists the penetration of liquid water; a hydrophobic capillary interruption matrix (106) positioned above the lower membrane, consisting of a discontinuous aggregate mixture bonded with a surface-modified hydrophobic silane-siloxane treatment. The matrix has irregular voids to interrupt continuous capillary water pathways.several passively swelling gel capsules (108) arranged in the matrix and encapsulated in semi-permeable polymer bags. The capsules are configured to expand volumetrically upon contact with water to physically block moisture migration pathways; an upper sacrificial porosity zone (110) consisting of a layer of lightweight concrete or aerated mortar with high pore-connecting and moisture-buffering capacity, arranged above the capillary-breaking matrix and in direct contact with the overlying structural concrete; a rigid, chemically inert high-density polyethylene (HDPE) structural frame (112) enclosing the layers, the frame having mechanical interlocks and lateral seals adapted to form a continuous, mosaic-like sealing field across the slab when installed in a tiled configuration;where, when embedded in the plate, the system forms a multi-layered, capillary-breaking and vapor-permeable assembly that passively prevents water leaks by interrupting, hindering and redirecting water migration through capillary action.

[0027] In one embodiment, the vapor-permeable membrane (104) consists of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) with a pore size distribution between 0.1 and 1.2 micrometers and a water inlet pressure of over 0.5 bar, which enables selective transfer of water vapor while preventing the transport of liquid masses.

[0028] In one embodiment, the hydrophobic capillary interruption matrix (106) also comprises embedded nanoscale, surface-treated silicon dioxide particles functionalized with graphene oxide. The particles form a spatially responsive nanobarrier network that changes its hydrophilicity in response to changes in ambient humidity, thereby further modulating the capillary flow dynamics within the matrix.

[0029] In one embodiment, the passively swelling gel capsules (108) consist of cross-linked sodium polyacrylate, each encapsulated in a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film with pore diameters in the range of 20 to 50 nanometers, thereby enabling the selective diffusion of water molecules for activation while simultaneously preventing the ingress of dust or biological contaminants.

[0030] In one embodiment, the sacrificial porosity zone (110) is formed using a foam concrete containing air pores and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) microfibers. The zone has a pore volume fraction of 25–35% and a permeability coefficient of at least 1.0 × 10⁻⁶. -5 cm / s and is configured to absorb temporary moisture and buffer expansion stresses.

[0031] In one embodiment, a capillary monitoring sensor unit (CMSU) is integrated into at least one capillary barrier insert. The CMSU comprises a capacitive moisture sensor, a resistive soil moisture sensor, and a thermal compensation circuit, all operationally connected to a low-power wireless communication module configured to transmit moisture readings and thermal compensation data to a remote base station.

[0032] In one embodiment, the CMSU is powered by an embedded thin-film lithium battery with a capacity of less than 100 mAh, the power supply system also including a micro-generator for energy harvesting based on piezoelectric vibrations from structural or environmental movements to extend the battery life to over 10 years under passive monitoring conditions.

[0033] In one embodiment, the polyethylene structural frame (112) comprises a modular locking system with dovetail tongue and groove side connectors and elastomeric nitrile rubber seals configured to seal gaps between units and withstand hydraulic pressures of up to 0.3 MPa from lateral water ingress.

[0034] In one embodiment, the capillary barrier inserts (102) are installed in an offset checkerboard grid with a grid spacing of 600 mm ± 10 mm and a depth offset of 25-40 mm from the top of the slab, enabling uniform coverage while maintaining structural continuity and adherence to the reinforcement arrangement.

[0035] The system according to claim 1, wherein the components of the capillary barrier insert are designed to not react with cement hydration products and to have thermal stability in the range of -10 °C to 80 °C, thereby ensuring long-term compatibility with high-performance concrete mixes, including those containing additional cementitious materials such as fly ash or GGBFS.

[0036] According to the stated claims, the present invention provides a detailed and integrated solution for preventing water leaks in roof tiles by means of a capillary control system embedded in the tile structure. The core of the system is the capillary barrier insert (CBI), a passive, layered system based on the principles of capillary interruption, moisture diffusion regulation, and conditional path restriction. The system is designed as a physicochemical hybrid solution that combats penetrating water not at the surface, but within the concrete matrix itself, where capillary action is most active and persistent.

[0037] Each CBI module consists of several individual layers, each fulfilling a specific technical function. The bottom layer is a vapor-permeable, liquid-impermeable membrane made of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). Due to its sub-micrometer pore size distribution, this microporous membrane allows only water vapor molecules to pass through. This effectively enables vapor-phase diffusion while blocking the migration of liquid water. This layer is crucial for allowing moisture trapped inside the panel to escape. This prevents pressure buildup while simultaneously acting as a one-way barrier against water ingress from the outside.

[0038] Above this membrane lies the capillary interruption matrix, which constitutes the central operating area for disrupting water transport pathways. This matrix consists of hydrophobically treated expanded clay aggregates embedded in a silane-siloxane composite resin. The irregular particle sizes and spacing create discontinuities in the pore network, thus interrupting the capillary rise mechanism by severing the continuous column of water that normally moves through fine, interconnected pores. This effect is further enhanced by the inclusion of nanotechnology-produced, surface-treated silica particles functionalized with graphene oxide.These nanomaterials exhibit different surface energy properties depending on the relative humidity of their environment, dynamically influencing the matrix's wettability and extending the capillary-blocking function to a degree of adaptability. Under dry conditions, the particles exhibit increased hydrophobicity, which enhances capillary breakage; under high humidity conditions, the graphene oxide layers easily realign, further hindering fluid formation.

[0039] Passively swelling sodium polyacrylate gel capsules are embedded in the capillary matrix and enclosed in semipermeable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) microbags. These capsules are spatially distributed using optimized spacing techniques that account for the expected convergence zones of the capillary water. The TPU film selectively allows water molecules to penetrate through nanometer-sized pores, and upon absorption, the sodium polyacrylate expands exponentially, forming a localized gel plug. This swelling process is volumetrically confined within reinforced micromesh cages embedded in the matrix to prevent structural shifts and completely block the moisture migration pathway.The expansion kinetics of these capsules are optimized so that they are activated within 2-6 hours after exposure to a continuous flow of moisture, allowing the system to self-regulate against persistent capillary rise and internal leakage.

[0040] Above the interruption matrix lies the porous sacrificial layer made of foamed or porous lightweight concrete, rich in air pores and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) microfibers. This layer is designed to absorb temporary moisture and relieve thermal or hydraulic stresses by acting as a buffer zone. Its high permeability facilitates the diffusion of vapor upwards and outwards through the exposed surfaces of the slab. Furthermore, it absorbs minor expansion and contraction forces generated within the slab by temperature cycling or hydration reactions, thus preserving the integrity of the underlying layers.

[0041] To ensure the mechanical robustness of the insert and enable seamless installation in various slab geometries, all layers are enclosed within a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) frame. The frame features precision-engineered mechanical interlocks in the form of dovetail joints and elastomer seals. These structural elements allow for the modular assembly of adjacent units in a mosaic pattern and provide continuous sealing at the interfaces. This enables the system to withstand lateral water ingress pressures of up to 0.3 MPa. The system is embedded during the slab casting process at defined grid intervals (typically 600 mm center-to-center) to maintain alignment with the reinforcement positioning and prevent mechanical disturbances.

[0042] In an enhanced version, selected CBI units are integrated with capillary monitoring sensor units (CMSUs). Each CMSU contains a suite of microelectronic sensors—specifically, a capacitive humidity sensor, a resistive soil moisture sensor, and a temperature compensation circuit. These sensors are controlled by a microcontroller that uses a lightweight technique to perform noise-compensated, cross-calibrated measurements of the internal moisture content within the panel. The microcontroller executes a sensor fusion protocol, combining raw sensor signals through weighted least squares estimation to generate an accurate profile of local capillary activity. The data is logged periodically and transmitted to an external data logger or building management system via a low-power wireless protocol such as LoRaWAN or BLE.

[0043] The technology used in the CMSU is designed for extremely low power consumption. It is based on an event-driven architecture, where the system remains in deep sleep mode until a humidity threshold is exceeded. It then initiates a sampling sequence, processes the data internally, and only triggers transmission if a statistical anomaly is detected. The integrated firmware uses a time-based moving average and a Kalman filter to minimize false alarms caused by temperature-related humidity fluctuations. A micro-piezoelectric energy harvester extends the sensor's lifespan by converting ambient vibrations into usable electrical energy, thus supplementing the embedded thin-film lithium battery.

[0044] By combining a multi-stage capillary interruption system, a physically expanding moisture-blocking system, and real-time environmental sensor technology, the invention offers a comprehensive solution that not only prevents water leaks in roof panels but also increases structural durability and provides practical moisture information. Unlike conventional sealing systems, which rely heavily on post-construction treatments, the present invention acts directly within the panel. This eliminates the need for surface treatment, reduces maintenance costs throughout the entire life cycle, and introduces intelligence at the material level. The technology and sensor interface make the system future-proof for integration into smart building environments, where predictive maintenance and automatic alerts can be triggered based on real-time capillary activity data.

[0045] The system for preventing water leaks by controlling capillary action is implemented via an integrated device, hereinafter referred to as the capillary barrier insert (CBI), which is embedded in the roof panel during construction. The CBI consists of a multilayer composite material with a lower vapor-permeable diffusion membrane (1), a hydrophobic capillary interruption matrix (2), an embedded grid of passively expanding gel capsules (3), and an upper sacrificial porosity zone (4). These components are enclosed together in a high-density polyethylene frame (5), which is modular and can be connected to adjacent inserts to cover the panel surface in a mosaic pattern.

[0046] The vapor-permeable diffusion membrane (1) consists of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) or polyetherblockamide (PEBA) and allows vapor diffusion while limiting water flow. This layer is in direct contact with the underside of the panel, allowing trapped moisture to escape without allowing water to penetrate downwards.

[0047] The core component, the hydrophobic capillary interruption matrix (2), consists of chemically treated expanded clay aggregates bound with a water-repellent silane-siloxane formulation. This matrix forms an irregular, discontinuous porous zone that interrupts the capillary rise of water molecules by altering the surface energy conditions and pore geometry. Additionally, the aggregates are embedded with nanostructured barriers of graphene oxide-coated silica particles, which respond to changes in humidity by slightly altering their dispersion, thus further disrupting water transport.

[0048] Several passively swelling gel capsules (3) made of sodium polyacrylate or polyacrylamide copolymers are integrated into this matrix. These capsules are spatially distributed such that they expand as water migrates along the capillary paths and seal the channels on site. The swelling is volumetrically limited by micromesh pockets in the application to prevent structural deformation and simultaneously ensure the closure of active leakage paths.

[0049] Above the matrix is ​​a porous sacrificial zone (4) consisting of lightweight concrete with a high air void content and short polyvinyl alcohol fibers. This layer is designed to absorb thermal and moisture expansion without transferring stresses to the upper roof surface or the structural reinforcement. It also serves as a temporary reservoir for moisture and allows evaporation through the vapor-permeable layer below.

[0050] The polyethylene structural frame (5) is designed to withstand the compressive load of the overlying concrete. It is equipped with locking tabs and circumferential seals to ensure a continuous seal between adjacent inserts. The device is embedded in the concrete during the pouring of the slab at predetermined grid intervals based on the slab area. Placement is typically at intervals of 600 mm to 900 mm.

[0051] A key innovation of this invention is the integration of a capillary monitoring sensor unit (CMSU) attached to selected CBI modules. The CMSU consists of a miniature capacitive humidity sensor, a resistive humidity sensor, and a thermal compensation unit, all housed in a waterproof enclosure. The CMSU periodically transmits data to a remote monitoring unit via a low-energy wireless protocol (e.g., LoRaWAN or BLE). This enables predictive analytics to detect capillary moisture movement at an early stage and initiate corrective actions such as localized heating or resealing of the surface.

[0052] The system does not rely on external coatings and withstands cyclical environmental influences for over 30 years without chemically degrading. Should moisture penetrate the panel due to an unforeseen mechanical crack, the swelling capsule mechanism stops further migration, thus forming a self-healing barrier.

[0053] The present invention relates to civil engineering and building construction, in particular the design and integration of sealing systems in cast-in-place concrete structures. Specifically, the invention relates to a system and an embedded device for controlling and interrupting capillary action in reinforced concrete roof slabs to prevent water ingress. The invention utilizes principles of materials science, capillary physics, and environmental sensing to create an internal, self-activating, and scalable moisture barrier that improves structural durability and sealing performance in exposed slab environments.

[0054] The drawing and the preceding description show examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more of the described elements can be combined to form a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements can be divided into several functional elements. Elements of one embodiment can be added to another embodiment. For example, the sequence of the processes described here can be changed and is not limited to the manner described here. Furthermore, the actions of a flowchart need not be implemented in the sequence shown; nor does it necessarily have to be performed by all actions. Actions that are not dependent on other actions can also be performed in parallel with the other actions. The scope of the embodiments is in no way limited by these specific examples.Numerous variations are possible, whether explicitly stated in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimensions, and material usage. The range of embodiments is at least as broad as specified in the following claims.

[0055] Advantages, further benefits, and problem solutions have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, the advantages, benefits, problem solutions, and all components that can lead to an advantage, benefit, or solution occurring or becoming more apparent are not to be construed as critical, necessary, or essential features or components of individual or all claims. REFERENCES 100 A system for preventing water leaks in roof panels through capillary action control. 102 Variety of Capillary Barriers 104 Vapor-permeable, liquid-impermeable submembrane 106 Hydrophobic capillary 108 Variety of passively swelling gel capsules 110 Upper sacrificial porosity zone 112 Chemically Inert Structural Framework

Claims

[1] A system for preventing water leakage in concrete roof slabs by controlling capillary action, the system comprising: a variety of capillary barrier inserts configured to be embedded in a concrete slab during casting, each insert comprising the following: a vapor-permeable, liquid-impermeable lower membrane made of a polymeric microporous material, configured to allow vapor diffusion while resisting the penetration of liquid water; a hydrophobic capillary interruption matrix arranged above the lower membrane and consisting of a discontinuous aggregate mixture bonded with a surface-modified hydrophobic silane-siloxane treatment, wherein the matrix has irregular cavities to interrupt continuous capillary water pathways; a multitude of passively swelling gel capsules arranged within the matrix and encapsulated in semi-permeable polymer bags, the capsules being configured to expand volumetrically upon contact with water in order to physically block the migration pathways of moisture; an upper sacrificial porosity zone consisting of a layer of lightweight concrete or aerated mortar with high pore connectivity and moisture buffering capacity, arranged above the capillary interruption matrix and in direct contact with the structural concrete above; a rigid, chemically inert structural frame made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) enclosing the layers, the frame having mechanical interlocks and lateral seals adapted to form a continuous, mosaic-like sealing field across the panel when installed in a tiled configuration; When embedded in the plate, the system forms a multi-layered, capillary-breaking and vapor-permeable assembly that passively prevents water leaks by interrupting, hindering and redirecting water migration through capillary action. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the vapor-permeable membrane consists of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) configured with a pore size distribution between 0.1 and 1.2 micrometers and a water inlet pressure above 0.5 bar, thereby enabling selective transfer of water vapor while preventing the transport of liquid masses. [3] System according to claim 1, wherein the hydrophobic capillary interruption matrix further comprises embedded nanoscale, surface-treated silicon dioxide particles functionalized with graphene oxide, the particles forming a spatially responsive nanobarrier network that changes its hydrophilicity in response to changes in ambient humidity and thereby further modulates the capillary flow dynamics within the matrix. [4] System according to claim 1, wherein the passively swelling gel capsules consist of cross-linked sodium polyacrylate and are each encapsulated in a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film with pore diameters in the range of 20 to 50 nanometers, thereby enabling the selective diffusion of water molecules for activation while simultaneously preventing the ingress of dust or biological contaminants. [5] System according to claim 1, wherein the sacrificial porosity zone is formed using a foam concrete containing air pores and microfibers made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), wherein the zone has a pore volume fraction of 25 to 35% and a permeability coefficient of at least 1.0 × 10 -5 cm / s and is configured to absorb temporary moisture and buffer expansion stresses. [6] The system according to claim 1 further comprises a capillary monitoring sensor unit (CMSU) integrated into at least one capillary barrier insert, wherein the CMSU comprises a capacitive moisture sensor, a resistive soil moisture sensor and a heat compensation circuit, all of which are operationally connected to a low-power wireless communication module configured to transmit moisture readings and heat compensation data to a remote base station. [7] System according to claim 6, wherein the CMSU is powered by an embedded thin-film lithium battery with a capacity of less than 100 mAh, the power supply system further comprising a micro-generator for energy harvesting based on piezoelectric vibrations from structural or environmental movements to extend the battery life to over 10 years under passive monitoring conditions. [8] System according to claim 1, wherein the polyethylene structural frame comprises a modular locking system with dovetail tongue and groove side connectors and elastomeric nitrile rubber seals configured to seal gaps between units and to withstand hydraulic pressures of up to 0.3 MPa through lateral ingress of water. [9] System according to claim 1, wherein the capillary barrier inserts are installed in an offset checkerboard grid with a grid dimension of 600 mm ± 10 mm and a depth offset of 25-40 mm from the top of the slab, thereby enabling uniform coverage while maintaining structural continuity and adherence to the reinforcement arrangement.

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