Waterproofing of Drinking Water Reservoirs
Materials used in the waterproofing of drinking water reservoirs must comply with strict requirements. Surfaces in contact with drinking water must be inspected, cleaned, and disinfected at regular intervals to meet with the approval of regulatory authorities. Reservoirs must be protected against leakages and ingress from groundwater under hydrostatic pressure not only to protect the structure but also the quality of the drinking water. Different methods can be used to waterproof drinking water reservoirs:
- Waterproofing the concrete structure by reducing the water-cement ratio in the concrete mix design using third generation high range water reducing admixtures. Waterbars can be used for treating specific joints.
- Applying a thin layer one-component low porosity mortar. The selected thin layer one component mortar should not affect the drinking water taste and odor. It should not include polymers nor promote the growth of fungi or bacteria. When applied, its surface should be smooth with low porosity, and easy to inspect. As an alternative, a two-component material may be selected with low modulus of elasticity of less than 15, N/mm² to prevent destructive stresses.
- Applying a synthetic acrylic-based protective coating in conjunction with a pore sealer by paint roller or spraying equipment.
- Applying a polyolefin with glass fabric reinforcement available in thicknesses of 1 to 1.8mm, capable of bridging cracks and accommodating movements in the substrate.
The Holderchem system for waterproofing drinking water reservoirs (whether during new construction or in refurbishment works) is detailed in the below figures.
Statement of Responsibility: The information and application advice contained in this document are based on the present state of scientific and practical knowledge of Holderchem SAL. It is provided with no warranty, implied or otherwise, as to its completeness or accuracy. Since methods and conditions of application and use are beyond the control of Holderchem, HOLDERCHEM MAKES NO WARRANTIES, IMPLIED OR OTHERWISE, AS TO THE MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ORDINARY OR PARTICULAR PURPOSES OF ITS PRODUCTS AND EXCLUDES THE SAME. Holderchem warrants that its products shall be of sound materials and workmanship. As products are applied, handled and stored in manners and site conditions over which Holderchem has no control, Holderchem's liability in respect of any material which can be proven defective shall be limited to the replacement of such defective material or reimbursement of its cost at Holderchem's option. Holderchem shall not be liable for any consequential or incidental damage or loss arising out of the use of its products. Important Note: Holderchem shall have the right to modify product specification sheets at any time without previous notice. Buyers should always refer to the most recent data sheets, copies of which can be supplied upon request. The sale of products mentioned in this literature shall be subject to Holderchem's General Conditions of Sale Delivery and Payment.
Holderchem R&D seeks to develop solutions to meet construction challenges by bringing to market innovative products and systems, which offer benefits across the complete life cycle of buildings and other constructions. The aim is to supply customers with high-performance products to help them achieve better productivity, lower overall costs, and achieve extended service life and functionality. Research also aims at developing the Holderchem range of Batimix® products with a particular focus on polymer emulsions, polymer-inorganic interactions, and product applications.