Bentonite Membrane Waterproofing for Underground Floor Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waterproofing solutions for underground floors of buildings, such as asphalt and PVC membranes, are labor-intensive, prone to defects, and fail to effectively seal the interface between horizontal and vertical surfaces, leading to water ingress and structural damage.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer waterproofing system using waterproofing concrete, bentonite waterproofing membrane, penetrating coating, and gravel bed, which forms a self-sealing composite that adheres to vertical structures and maintains waterproofing integrity regardless of water level changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If asphalt waterproofing strips are used, then waterproofing coverage is achieved, but labor intensity increases and defect potential increases at temperatures below 0°C
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the waterproofing material from solid (asphalt strips requiring melting and application) to liquid (water-based penetrating coating that absorbs and reacts with concrete). This parameter change eliminates the need for heating equipment and manual melting operations, significantly reducing labor intensity while maintaining waterproofing integrity through chemical reaction with the concrete substrate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical application process of asphalt strips (which require melting, handling, and precise placement) with a chemical absorption process. The water-based coating penetrates the concrete pores and reacts chemically to form crystalline structures that block water pathways, eliminating the need for mechanical manipulation and reducing labor intensity.
2Reliability
If PVC waterproofing membranes are used, then waterproofing properties are achieved, but susceptibility to damage increases during implementation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the form of the waterproofing material from a pre-formed membrane (PVC) that is prone to mechanical damage during handling and installation to a liquid coating that penetrates and reacts with the concrete. This eliminates the risk of tears and cracks during installation while achieving equivalent or superior waterproofing properties through in-situ crystalline formation within the concrete matrix.
Solution Approach 2:
The penetrating coating applies itself into the concrete substrate through capillary action and chemical reaction, forming the waterproofing layer within the concrete structure itself. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for separate membrane application and reduces the risk of installation damage, as the waterproofing function is integrated directly into the concrete matrix.
3Reliability
If multi-layer waterproofing system is implemented, then waterproofing effectiveness is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple waterproofing functions into a single integrated system. The water-based penetrating coating simultaneously performs penetration, chemical reaction, and crystalline formation within the concrete, while the bentonite membrane provides additional sealing at construction joints. This unified approach achieves multi-layer effectiveness without the complexity of applying and coordinating multiple separate waterproofing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials that combine multiple functional properties in a single substance. The water-based penetrating coating contains chemicals that react with concrete to form crystalline structures, while the bentonite membrane provides swelling and sealing properties. This composite approach achieves superior waterproofing effectiveness without requiring complex multi-layer systems, as each material performs multiple functions simultaneously.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides a fast, low-labor, and effective waterproofing solution that seals the underground structure without special equipment, ensuring durability and adhesion to vertical surfaces, preventing water penetration and structural defects.
Implementation Method 1
a bentonite waterproofing membrane, which transforms into a gel with excellent waterproofing properties when in contact with water or ground moisture
Implementation Method 2
a bentonite waterproofing membrane, which transforms into a gel with excellent waterproofing properties when in contact with water or ground moisture
Implementation Method 3
a penetrating waterproofing coating
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The subject of the technical solution is a multilayer waterproofing of buildings, which consists of a bentonite membrane made of two interwoven polypropylene geotextiles, between which a layer of natural sodium bentonite is placed, as a waterproofing element of the underground floor of the building.