ELASTON-W80 | CASE STUDY CS-008.2

Project Overview

The commercial asset industry is crucial to Australia's economy, but constructing buildings comes with challenges like infrastructure protection, corrosion control, and water ingress. Basement car parks are especially susceptible to water issues due to their below-ground location and the porosity of concrete, which allows water to penetrate and degrade the structure over time. Factors like heavy rain and flooding can introduce corrosive pollutants. Effective surface drainage is essential to reduce hydrostatic pressure and the risk of water ingress, ensuring the integrity and longevity of these structures.

This case study focuses on a basement tanking project impacted by groundwater, showcasing the use of polyurea membranes for waterproofing.

The Solution

The project involved waterproofing a pre-constructed underground car park located near groundwater. Liquimix offered a tailored solution, specifically using the Geotuff-220 Geofabric and Elaston-W80 pure polyurea. Geotextile fabrics like Geotuff-220 stabilise and protect the soil, enhancing moisture characteristics before foundation work.

Polyurea coatings cure quickly, allowing for rapid project turnaround, which was crucial for this construction. The flexibility of Elaston-W80 accommodates minor soil movements, minimising the risk of cracks and leaks. It is certified for waterproofing both interior and exterior surfaces, making it a reliable choice for Australian assets.

The Result

After installing and securing the Geotuff-220, the Elaston-W80 membrane was sprayed at a minimum thickness of 3,000µm, to ensure uniform coverage. Its rapid curing kept the project on schedule and minimised downtime. Post-application inspections confirmed no leaks, validating the membrane's effectiveness. 

This case study illustrates the benefits of polyurea membranes for waterproofing below-ground projects. Their quick cure time, durability, flexibility, and excellent waterproofing capabilities make them ideal for challenging environments. Investing in high-quality materials and application methods minimises future maintenance and repair costs, resulting in long-term cost efficiency. This successful application highlights the importance of choosing the right materials for long-term performance and reliability in underground structures, establishing polyurea membranes as a superior waterproofing solution.