1. Introduction
Special structures such as bridge decks, metro tunnels, nuclear plants, and pollutant-heavy facilities demand waterproofing systems designed for extreme performance and long service life. These applications go beyond standard RCC works, requiring durability under heavy loads, hydrostatic pressure, chemical attack, or even radiation exposure.
Why Special Structures Need Specialized Waterproofing
- High movement and load cycles → need for flexible, crack-bridging systems.
- Constant exposure to weather, water, and chemicals.
- Long design life (50–100 years) → requires durability-focused waterproofing systems.
- Difficult access after construction → waterproofing must be “first-time right.”
2. Key Special Structure Areas
Metro Tunnels
Metro Tunnels
Nuclear Plants
Nuclear Plants
Pollutant Zones
Pollutant Zones
Bridge Deck
Bridge Deck
3. Master Mapping Table
Special Structure | Exposures | Recommended Tech | Notes | Read More |
Bridge Decks | Traffic, vibration, chloride attack | SBS Membranes, Polyurea | SBS = practical, Polyurea = premium | SBS Membrane, Polyurea Membrane |
Metro / Tunnels | Hydrostatic pressure, seepage | PVC Loose-Laid, HDPE Fully Bonded, Crystalline | PVC → large tunnels, HDPE → confined, Crystalline → backup | PVC Membranes |
Nuclear Plants | Radiation, chemical risk, long life | HDPE, Polyurea, Epoxy/EPU | Often combine 2+ systems for redundancy | HDPE Membranes |
Pollutant Zones | Chemical attack, abrasion, heat | Polyurea, EPU, Coal Tar Epoxy | Polyurea gold standard; Coal Tar only for refurbishment | Polyurea Membranes |