What is Alchemco?
and how does the tech work?
like, seriously.
What IS a Subsurface Waterproofing Membrane?
A subsurface waterproofing membrane is a material used to prevent the penetration of water into structures below the ground surface. It is commonly employed in construction, especially for basements, foundations, and other below-grade structures, to protect them from water intrusion.
How does it work?
Water, known for its ability to penetrate, seeps through surfaces into every crack, fissure, and capillary, causing inevitable damage. Our formula is designed to infiltrate these voids, cracks, and fissures, creating a subsurface membrane that seals existing cracks up to 2 mm wide, ensuring continuous protection against water and other harmful elements. This innovative technology is embedded with a bio-catalyst that remains reactive within the concrete. When future cracks appear, a viscoelastic sealing reaction is triggered, automatically regenerating the subsurface membrane to fill new cracks as they form. Our formula’s viscoelastic properties—combining both fluid and elastic characteristics—allow it to be applied to flexible surfaces. This subsurface membrane penetrates, dries, and protects without altering the appearance of the structure.
How is Alchemco’s Subsurface Waterproofing Membrane applied?
All of our waterproofing systems can be applied applied using minimal equipment such as a using a low-pressure pump style sprayer, backpack sprayer, drum style sprayer, a roller or a standard paint brush.
How long does it last?
Our systems are formulated to last long-term; for the design life of your structure.
We’re not like other girls.
What is the difference between Alchemco’s Waterproofing and a traditional traffic coating?
Our systems are easily spray applied with minimal equipment, short down-time, smaller crew sizes, which saves you time and money on your project. Our systems are trafficable within hours of application which means your structure is open for business FAST.
What is the difference between Alchemco’s Waterproofing and Sealants?
Unlike a sealant, we cannot be damaged or destroyed by mechanical or environmental impacts. Our waterproofing systems are inside the structure, designed for long-term protection minimizing maintenance and repair costs.
What about Spalling and Corrosion prevention?
Yes, we prevent against that too! Traditionally, you don’t know the problems of spalling and corrosion until its too late. By using subsurface membranes early, you can prevent against any future damages due to rust and metal inside your structure. We also prevent the intrusion of chloride ingress, which is the number one cause of those pesky cracks from within.
HOW IT WORKS
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HOW IT WORKS -
VS.
Concrete Overlays - Polymer Based
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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.
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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.
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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).
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Concrete Sealers -Penetrants
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- 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.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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- Enzyme Modified Subsurface Membrane Waterproofing (EMSMW) provides long-lasting waterproofing for concrete structures.
- It penetrates concrete and forms a durable chemical bond with its minerals, creating an impermeable barrier against water intrusion.
- This bond is highly resistant to moisture and does not degrade over time, offering consistent protection.
- 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.
