Low Reflectivity Granular Layer for Waterproofing Membrane Bonding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waterproofing technologies for concrete and shotcrete surfaces, particularly in below-grade and blind-side applications, face challenges in providing effective moisture and water protection with high reflectivity particles that can lead to visibility issues during installation and limited effectiveness in high hydrostatic pressure environments.
Innovation Solution
A below-grade, blind-side waterproofing sheet membrane with an adhesive layer and a low reflectivity granular particle layer, where the reflectivity is 50% or below, is securely bonded to concrete or shotcrete, utilizing dual release liners for ease of installation and enhanced visibility during application, and embedded particles for improved bonding and moisture resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If high reflectivity particles are used in waterproofing membrane, then visibility during installation is improved, but eye strain increases and detection of irregularities becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by using dark-colored granular particles (black, dark gray, dark green, dark brown) instead of traditional high reflectivity white particles. This color change provides sufficient contrast against concrete and shotcrete surfaces for visibility during installation, while the dark color reduces light reflection to prevent eye strain and improve detection of irregularities in the waterproofing membrane.
2Strength
If granular particles are embedded in adhesive layer, then bonding strength to concrete/shotcrete is improved, but particle embedment depth control becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by specifying that granular particles have diameters ranging from 0.5mm to 2.0mm, and that the adhesive layer thickness is 0.5mm to 2.0mm. These parameter specifications ensure that particles are partially embedded in the adhesive layer, providing optimal bonding strength while maintaining manufacturability. The particle size and adhesive thickness parameters are controlled to achieve the desired embedment depth without requiring excessive manufacturing precision.
3Reliability
If waterproofing membrane is placed in high hydrostatic pressure areas, then moisture protection effectiveness is improved, but bonding reliability becomes more critical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining a waterproofing membrane with an adhesive layer containing embedded granular particles. This composite structure enhances bonding reliability under hydrostatic pressure, as the granular particles provide mechanical interlocking with the concrete or shotcrete substrate, while the adhesive layer ensures strong adhesion. The combination of these materials creates a robust waterproofing system capable of withstanding high hydrostatic pressure environments.
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
The solution provides a durable, visually distinguishable waterproofing system that effectively prevents moisture penetration, especially in high hydrostatic pressure areas, while simplifying the installation process by reducing eye strain and improving detection of irregularities.
Implementation Method 1
a first adhesive layer (12) having a first adhesive surface (12A), and a second adhesive surface (12B) wherein said second adhesive surface (12B) is in secure contact with at least a portion of said first membrane surface (10A)
Implementation Method 2
wherein said at least one layer of at least one low reflectivity granular particle layer (14) has an average reflectivity of about 50 or below 55 percent reflectivity on a standard reflectivity scale
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates generally to a below grade, blind side, waterproofing sheet membrane with adhesive and low reflectivity granular particle layer to fully bond to concrete/shotcrete, and a method of making, and using same. More particularly, the invention encompasses a below grade, blind side, waterproofing sheet membrane with adhesive, and having at least one layer of low reflectivity granular particle layer that are fully or partly embedded into the adhesive layer, and where the average reflectivity of the exposed granular particles is about 50 or below 55 percent reflectivity on a standard reflectivity scale. The inventive waterproofing layer having the waterproofing sheet membrane, and an adhesive layer having embedded therein low reflectivity granular particles can be used in any building or wall construction, and can be placed under or around a foundation of a building or dwelling or on its below grade blind side retaining walls, etc.


