
Innovation. Protection. Sustainability.
BELOW GRADE & INTERIOR
Below-grade structures are constantly exposed to moisture, hydrostatic pressure, and harsh underground conditions that can lead to deterioration and costly repairs. Alchemco®’s Subsurface Membrane Waterproofing™ works from within, creating a protection inside the concrete. This advanced technology helps maintain the integrity of the structure for its designed life without the need for frequent maintenance or reapplication.
Proven Protection: Project Profiles & Case Studies
From Challenge to Solution: View Our Cases
VS.
Concrete Overlays for Below Grade & Interior - Polymer Based
-
Epoxy overlays are the most common overlay system in the U.S.
They are two-component systems, consisting of epoxy resin and a curing/hardening agent.
Known for their high bond strength and low shrinkage.
Often, no primer is needed if the concrete deck is properly cleaned and prepped.
Applied using a multiple-layer method, also called the broom-and-seed method.
Typically, 2-3 layers of epoxy are applied.
Aggregate (small particles) is spread on each layer as per the manufacturer's guidelines.
After each layer cures, unbound aggregate is removed before applying the next layer.
-
Two-component systems with polyester-styrene resin and organic peroxide as the initiator for curing.
Polyester overlays are usually applied using the premix method.
The material is screeded to grade for even application.
Fine aggregate is spread on the surface for initial skid resistance.
These systems generally require a primer on the bridge deck before applying the overlay.
-
Two-component systems with methyl methacrylate resin and a small amount of organic peroxide as the curing initiator.
Methacrylate overlays are usually applied using the slurry method, mixed with aggregates.
Both the bridge deck and aggregate must be completely dry due to the system’s sensitivity to moisture.
Methacrylate top-coats are available to help bond/encapsulate the aggregate.
Common chemistries used include Poly Methyl Methacrylate (PMMA) and Polyurethane Methacrylate (PUMA).
VS.
Concrete Sealers for Below Grade & Interior - Penetrants
-
- Concrete deck sealers are spray-applied liquids designed to cover the entire bridge deck, not just cracks.
- The most commonly used chemistries are Silanes and Siloxanes.
- These sealers penetrate the concrete surface and act as a water repellent (hydrophobic).
- They do not qualify as waterproofing products.
- They cannot seal existing or future cracks.
-
- Silane sealers penetrate concrete but may not be ideal for enhancing and fully protecting surfaces.
- They create a hydrophobic barrier, but their effectiveness is limited in harsh weather conditions.
- Issues like water penetration, freeze-thaw damage, and stains can still occur.
- While they offer some protection, they may not meet expectations for comprehensive or visually pleasing solutions.
-
- Siloxane sealers are known for their water-repellent properties, but their effectiveness is limited.
- They provide only partial protection against water intrusion, which can lead to cracks, pitting, and weakened structural integrity.
- These sealers often perform poorly in areas with heavy rain or constant moisture exposure.
- Durability is a concern, as siloxane sealers typically need frequent reapplication.
- Over time, the protective barrier fades, leaving concrete decks vulnerable to deterioration.
-
- Enzyme Modified Subsurface Membrane Waterproofing™ (EMSMW) provides long-lasting waterproofing for below-grade, and interior surfaces, preventing water infiltration that can lead to deterioration, efflorescence, and structural damage.
- It penetrates the concrete in below-grade, and interior surfaces chemically bond with its minerals, creating an impermeable barrier that blocks water from seeping into the structure.
- This deep chemical bond is highly resistant to moisture and environmental exposure, preventing water-related failures such as cracking, spalling, and freeze-thaw damage—common issues in under ground structures.
- EMSMW has an auto-regenerative property that activates when minor cracks or voids form, reacting with water to seal them and prevent further damage.
- This auto-regenerative ability ensures long-term structural integrity and protection, lasting for decades.
- EMSMW stands out from traditional methods due to its chemical bonding and auto-regenerative capabilities, making it an ideal choice for interior surfaces and below-grade applications where protection from moisture ingress and hydrostatic pressure is critical.
Explore Other Sectors